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Viewpoint from Andrew Scott 30/05/2025
 Andrew Scott
Lead Elder, New Wine Christian Fellowship, Martham
As I write this piece, we are just a week beyond Easter Sunday. My post Easter reflections have included dwelling on the freedoms bought for everyone by Christ’s sacrifice on the cross, and His subsequent rising from the tomb. I have pondered afresh on how the word ‘freedom’ is considered by some in society and its significance for followers of Christ
Daily we can read and watch news reports of one party exercising their freedom to act at the expense of others, without often any sense of compassion or value for those negatively affected
 Across the globe, nation-states sometimes exercise their autonomy, (or freedom to act), by engaging in military actions or implementing economic and trade sanctions against one another. Others may tighten border controls to inhibit the flow of certain individuals and groups, to enjoy freedom of passage; even within their own borders, some states will freely oppress minority groups amongst their fellow citizens
At an individual level, we might note people exercising their right to express themselves or behave towards others with unhindered sense of personal freedom. They certainly would not value the state, church or society seeking to restrict their perceived state of freedom. News reports include descriptions of, controlling behaviour, physical harm, denying a voice, theft and fraud; I will leave you to add that seemingly endless list of uncurtailed harm inflicted on others
Jesus teaches and invites us to follow a different path. We are no longer slaves to this world, but we are set free to pursue God’s righteousness.
Christ gave His life, in order that we can be set free (1 Timothy 2:6). As a result of His ransomed and risen being, we are cleansed and set free from any wrongdoing, to be totally focused and motivated to do good for others (Titus 2:14). We are invited then, to freely serve with humility, especially those in vulnerable situations; to share with others the hope and freedom brought through Christ’s death and resurrection; and to freely love and pray for all mankind, including those who we might recognise as being against us and all that we believe in
My prayer for each of us is that we would resist the slavery of any selfish, self-seeking desires. Instead, that we would live in Christ’s freedom and victory, acting unselfishly and with joy, as we look to love and serve one another in His Name
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