March 28

"If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed." — John 8:26.

HOW much does religion effect on our behalf! It finds us in darkness, and gives us light. It sees us in poverty, and confers on us riches. It views us as slaves, and pronounces us free. Observe here the nature and excellency of that freedom which the Saviour effects.

ITS NATURE. The promise of freedom supposes the existence of slavery. The Jews denied that they were in bondage; how false the assertion! Read their history, and you will find that they were in bondage to the Egyptians, and several of the neighboring nations. The sinner is in a state of captivity, but does not like to acknowledge it. Christ makes us free

From the bondage of condemnation. Sin binds its victim over to punishment: and he is as a condemned criminal, held by the strong arm of the law. This is the case, till Christ, as our Surety, releases us.

From the bondage of corruption. Grace first establishes purity of principle, and then holiness of life and conduct follow as the certain result. Thus while the Saviour changes our state, he transforms our nature.

ITS EXCELLENCY. Let us advert to some properties belonging to it.

It is real. "Ye shall be free indeed." The philosopher carries us through mazes of uncertainty; the statesman forms plans and projects that never take place, the speculating adventurer dreams of success in the midst of disappointments, and builds many a castle in the air. But it is not so here, all is reality.

It is spiritual. It is the redemption of the soul, the renewal of the mind, and the spirit of life. Men in all ages have endeavored to secularize religion; but it should ever be remembered that its origin, nature, principle, and tendency are all spiritual.

It is glorious. Thus we read of "the glorious liberty of the children of God." A glorious conquest is achieved over the tyrants who held you in subjection; a glorious change is produced in your condition, and a glorious crown awaits you in heaven.

It is permanent. The united force of earth and hell, men and devils, cannot make those slaves whom Jesus has made free. Are we the subjects of this happy state?