Freedom vs. Slavery

“They promise them freedom, while they themselves

 are slaves of depravity- for a man is a slave to whatever has mastered him.”

2 Peter 2:19 (NIV)

Peter writes to the believers, to warn them about false teachers in their midst. The phrase ‘while they themselves are slaves of depravity’ makes me think. How can these false teachers promote freedom when what they have is another brand of slavery?

In our 21^st Century world today, we see several types of modern slavery; we know them as addictions. Our society is filled with many groups that offer help for people to rise above the desire for the addictive substances.  I applaud their efforts to break the attraction of these forces.

We see people who seek acceptance by others, who begin to develop certain lifestyles. People don’t always understand that some of these habits are actually detrimental to their health.

There are times when those ways become harmful to their health and well-being. These lifestyles can affect their work. These choices can also affect marriages and families.

Jesus told the Jews,” . . . You will know the truth and the truth will set you free.’ John 8:32 (NIV)

If you know of someone who is caught in an addictive lifestyle, pray for him or her. Then, if that person is close to you, seek help for yourself, in order for you to learn how to deal with the problem.

   

Graphic: drhurd.com