Independence Day

By Jeff Arnette

    This week we will be celebrating our nations independence day. It is a day in which we celebrate our independence from the British 241 years ago. Independence day really appeals to us as Americans, many of our people fought and died to ensure our freedoms.  It causes us to have an independent spirit and sometimes that is good. Sometimes, though, being independent can be dangerous to us. Sometimes, being dependent is better.  
    The Bible has much to say about our dependence on Jesus Christ for our salvation. Without Him, we have nothing. Without Him, we are lost and doomed to an eternity of torment. Jesus Christ is our hope (1 Tim. 1:1), apart from Him life is truly hopeless.  

“Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John 14:6, ESV)
“I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5)

It should be obvious to us all that without Jesus and the sacrifice he made on our behalf, we would be hopelessly lost.  
    Another important aspect of this is our dependence on the church. Jesus created the church because He knew that we would need each other to succeed in this life.  

“And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” (Hebrews 10:24-25)
“I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” (Ephesians 4:1-3)

    This year, as we celebrate our independence let’s remember that as Christians our success is dependent on Jesus and His church. We are dependent on each other. God wanted it that way and honestly, it is beautiful. Independence is great but dependence on Jesus is better.

- Jeff Arnette preaches for the Central Haywood church of Christ, Clyde, NC.  He may be contacted through the congregation's website: http://centralhaywoodchurchofchrist.com