Our excuses often keep us in the dark about what is really going on inside us. But Jesus has come to shed light in dark places so that we can know the truth. And then he says that truth can set us free.

What are some of the excuses you have been enslaved to?

Often, we don’t realize we are lying to ourselves by the excuses we give.

*What are some of the lies (or excuses) that you have told yourself. *

When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” —John 8:12 (NIV)

Why is this an incredibly bold statement for Jesus to make?

Light obliterates darkness, but often we like our darkness. Why?

To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. 32 Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” —John 8:31-32 (NIV)

Christianity isn’t simply about believing in Jesus. It’s not about admiring Jesus. Christianity is about following Jesus (being his disciples).

What does it mean to follow Jesus… to be his disciple?

They answered him, “We are Abraham’s descendants and have never been slaves of anyone. How can you say that we shall be set free?” —John 8:33 (NIV)

Why is this a silly claim for them to make?

I tell you the truth, everyone who sins is a slave of sin. —John 8:34 (NIV)

Instead of reading to them their national history, Jesus talks to them about their personal history of sin.

In what ways are those who sin slaves to sin?

We have deceived ourselves into thinking that we are far more free than we actually are because we hide behind our excuses that keep on making allowance for our sin.

But Jesus, the light of the world, doesn’t leave us in darkness.

So if the Son sets you free, you are free indeed. —John 8:36 (NIV)

Connecting Jesus’ statement that he is the light that shines in the darkness and that he sets us free, that means he sets us free to see.

What are we free to see?
*What is it that still enslaves us?*