Romans 6:5-7, Freed From Sin

Romans 6:5-7 For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: 6 Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. 7 For he that is dead is freed from sin.

The “old man” refers to our previous unregenerate, godless behaviour. With no understanding of God, no fear of God, no true moral standard, we can choose to do what we want. We were sold to sin. Till God intervened in our lives to show us there is a living and true God who is our heavenly Father. God sent His Son to redeem us back to Him.

This is a true story from the days of American slave trade. A young black girl was being sold by auction, a common occurrence in those days. She was tall, slim and beautiful. The bidding was keen, and quickly mounted higher and higher. At last, only two men were left. One was a lowly uncouth fellow who swore each time he raised his bid against his competitor, a quiet refined gentleman.

Finally, the bidding stopped and to the gentleman who bid so earnestly was given the legal papers which made him the owner of the younger girl. With a push the auctioneer roughly presented her to her new master. Proudly and defiantly, she stood upright before him with contempt on her face and hatred in her eyes.

Then an amazing thing happened. Her new owner took the papers of ownership and tore them up into pieces. Then throwing them on the ground, he said kindly to the astonished girl, “My dear, I bought you that I might set you free. Now you may go – free!”

This is a wonderful testimony of God’s love for us when He sent His only begotten Son to free us from the bondage of sin.

Truly, we must be too stunned for speech, at what God had done for us through Jesus Christ, to free us from the cruel slavemaster, the bondage of Satan. It must cause us to be eternally grateful and cherish our newly bestowed freedom. Amen.