Jesus Christ, The Freedom of God: The Lord and Coming Savior | Ganoune Diop, Ph.D.

Religious Liberty Sermon by Ganoune Diop, Ph.D.​

The Apostle James states, "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above," linking to the freedom Jesus offers, "If the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed" (John 8:36). True freedom is found in Jesus Christ, who is both savior and the ultimate embodiment of God's revelation. He models perfect humanity and divine will alignment.

1. Jesus as the New Adam and Moses: - Jesus succeeded where Adam and Eve failed, creating a new humanity. As the new Moses, Jesus' life mirrored Moses with parallels such as escaping death in Egypt and transforming the water (blood to wine). He fulfilled and transcended the Torah, becoming the blood of a new covenant.
2. Jesus as the New Israel: - Jesus' life mirrored Israel's journey, from Egypt to the wilderness, yet He triumphed over temptation, embodying the Torah and the Temple. Jesus surpasses Israel's expectations, becoming the savior of the world.
3. Significance in Matthew's Gospel: - Jesus' mission is depicted as fulfilling God's purpose for creation, unifying the world under God's kingdom. His teachings and life embody righteousness, kingdom, and love, reforming Israel's understanding of God’s promises.
4. Freedom through the New Covenant: - Jesus provides direct access to God, liberating humanity from sin and death to eternal life. He embodies divine promises and roles, bringing salvation as liberation and reconciling humanity with God.
5. Titles of Jesus: - Jesus is the ultimate prophet, priest, king, and salvation bringer, known as the Word, the Way, the Truth, and the Life, culminating in the reconciliation of God with humanity.

This sermon was delivered on January 18, 2025. The full sermon transcript is attached hereinunder.

 

[Chief]

Religious Liberty is God's Gift to Humanity​

Religious freedom is more complex than it appears. Although belief in it is ancient, formal recognition by states and international bodies has only emerged in the last 250 years. The US Constitution, with its 1789-1791 amendments, was a pioneer in defining this freedom by separating church and state.

The International Religious Liberty Association (IRLA), founded in response to late 19th-century US legislative challenges, has played a key role in promoting this freedom internationally. Significant events like the World Wars prompted a reevaluation of human rights, leading to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948, which enshrined freedom of religion in Article 18. This freedom, recognised in various international agreements, is seen as fundamental, underpinning other rights such as freedom of speech and assembly.

Religious freedom is a key political principle and a legal right, highlighting our humanity and shared conscience. It embodies sacredness, tolerance, and respect, acting as a deterrent against authoritarianism and recognising the intrinsic value of every individual. Embracing this freedom implies a commitment to peace and the non-coercion of beliefs.

From a faith perspective, religious freedom reflects a divine attribute, connected to free will and the ability to choose belief. This underscores the importance of respect and non-judgement of others, acknowledging each person's unique and sacred relationship with the divine. If universally embraced, religious freedom would eliminate oppression, forced conversions, and religious conflicts, fostering human solidarity and respect for diversity. It aligns with the biblical call for love and service, as expressed in Galatians, and invites people of all beliefs to work towards peaceful coexistence and societal wellbeing.

Original article was first published on Adventist Review.