The Only Way to Freedom

By Michael Youssef, Ph.D. Many preach that one must achieve nirvana, have good karma, follow certain principles, be knowledgeable enough, or pray a certain number of times a day in order to attain perfection. They believe that the way to freedom is working for a seat in heaven, which can lead to a lifestyle of constant fear, confusion, and anxiety. But Jesus preached differently. In the midst of these exhausting lifestyles, Jesus stands alone. In a time when many were burnt out on the religion of the Pharisees, Jesus said, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:28-30). This promise is just as relevant and powerful to us today as it was 2,000 years ago. Many people admire Jesus but become disillusioned when they see Christians who are hypocritical, anxious, legalistic, and tired. The truth is, Jesus did not die for us to live this way—He died for us to live in freedom. In Galatians, one of Paul’s most fervent letters, Paul warned against Judaizers who were preaching that Jesus’ work was not enough. They taught that salvation was only achieved through following Old Testament laws in addition to faith in Jesus. Jesus Himself rebuked the Pharisees for trying to be perfect through their works (see Matthew 23:25-28), which is self-righteousness. So what is true righteousness? Paul’s letters remind us that “the righteous will live by faith” (Galatians 3:11, Romans 1:17, Romans 4:22). If you truly believe that Jesus gave His life for you, then His righteousness already covers you. Transformation then comes from an inward connection to Jesus, the source, changing you from the inside out. Good works are not our salvation, but they are the proof of a faith-filled life. Our works do not change us; His grace does that. Jesus did not die for us to work our way into His good graces—He became the way so that we might live in His grace eternally, starting today. This grace is so powerful that our desire to love God and others becomes greater than our desire to sin, provoking us to then do good works. Do you know that Jesus’ work is enough for you? The perfect life He lived, the obedient death He died, and the victorious Resurrection He won are enough to transform you into His likeness today. All He needs from you is an open heart.