Freedom!

Here's one reason (among many) I'm happy to be in Christ: Freedom!

That's why it's tough to beat a book like Galatians.

There's a theological consideration that I kept in mind as I read. The idea of justification that most of us have in our minds is the penal substitution of Christ- that he took our place on the cross and purchased our righteousness by his life, death and resurrection. True enough.

However, my friend challenged me to think of "justification" in a new way- less as Jesus substitutionary atonement and more as being included in the family of God. So it made for an interesting read.

The difference may seem subtle, but the consequences are greater than you might think. What is the primary meaning of what it means to be justified? Is it forgiveness of sins? OR Is it to include me in his family?

Hmmm... Great coffee shop discussion.

One thing is clear: I'm glad I'm free to be led by the Spirit and not a rule bound legalist.