30 Bible Verses on Freedom in Christ (with free PDF printable) The Holy Mess

Use these freedom Bible verses to understand what God’s Word says about how you are free in Christ.

We all long for freedom to live life the way we want to and make our own choices. Is this the freedom that God talks about in the Bible? What about freedom of speech, religion, or choice? Are these Biblical concepts?

Bible reading plan about freedom - free daily plan — Download your free Bible reading plan about freedom in Christ below.

Table Of Contents

What Does it Mean to Have Freedom in Christ?
Are You Living in Freedom?
What Does Biblical Freedom from Oppression Give You?
30 Best Freedom in Christ Bible Verses
Freedom in Christ Study – Free PDF Printable

What Does it Mean to Have Freedom in Christ?

In America and the world today, the word “freedom” is associated with personal liberty. You want the freedom to make your own decisions and live your life.

The Biblical definition of freedom, especially freedom in Christ, is different.

Freedom in Christ means the ability to live as the person God created you to be.

Here are some of the ways that God gives you freedom:

Freedom from sin, death, and the power of the devil.
Freedom from addictions.
Freedom from chains that bind you.
Freedom from past hurts and sins.
Freedom from the yoke of slavery.
Freedom from oppression.
Freedom from debt and financial burdens.
Freedom from family curses and patterns of sin.
Freedom from slavery.
Freedom from captivity.

Focus on the Family explains it this way,

Jesus was not setting us free to do whatever we wanted; He was freeing us to do what we ought to do.
Focus on the Family, Freedom in Christ

Before you were a Christian, you were in bondage to sin. The Bible says you were a slave to sin. (John 8:34). By accepting Christ’s saving work on the cross as your way of salvation, you now have true freedom and are no longer in slavery to your sinful, worldly desires.

Are You Living in Freedom?

You may have the freedom of Christ in your life yet continue to live as if you are enslaved.

Are you holding on to selfish, sinful behaviors that keep you stuck?

For years, I lived with food obsession and compulsive overeating. This was a sinful behavior that needed God’s healing in my life.

Freedom in Christ is a powerful yet challenging concept. We have to die to ourselves to be alive in Christ. We give up choices in order to have more freedom. Seems ironic, doesn’t it?

Use this month’s Freedom Bible Reading plan to grow in your understanding of what the Bible says about freedom, learn freedom Bible verses, and gain a deeper understanding into how to walk as a free child of God.

What Does Biblical Freedom from Oppression Give You?

Because we live in a sinful world, we are faced with painful situations. No matter your situation, the Bible has answers for you.

Here are just a few situations where this 30-day Bible reading plan about Freedom will be a blessing to you because it includes:

Bible verses about freedom of choice, speech, or religion.
Bible verses about freedom from shame, guilt, and the past.
Bible verses about freedom from the law and condemnation,
Bible verses about freedom from addiction, debt, sickness, pain, or anxiety.

30 Best Freedom in Christ Bible Verses

I encourage you to use these passages from God’s word as a starting point to learn more about freedom as taught in Scripture.

These are some of the most popular Bible verses about freedom, justice, and liberty because they explain how we can be free from our sinful desires and live in the light of Christ. All verses are listed in the ESV, English Standard Version.

1. 1 Peter 2:16 – Live as people who are free

Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as servants of God.
1 Peter 2:16

Use your freedom for good because it is a gift from God. It’s a call to live in a way that honors Him and uplifts and respects those around us. This creates a harmonious, beautiful blend of faith and freedom.

2. John 8:32 – The truth will set you free

And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.
John 8:32

God’s truth ultimately leads to your freedom. Think about Corrie ten Boom, who was enslaved during the Holocaust, yet boldly shared her faith. She did not have physical freedom, yet she had a greater spiritual freedom.

3. Psalm 118:5 – The Lord answered and set me free

Out of my distress I called on the Lord;
the Lord answered me and set me free.
Psalm 118:5

What a wonderful reminder that God’s freedom is your anchor in your toughest moments. You can trust that no matter what struggles you are going through, His strength is there to lift you up.

4. 1 Corinthians 10:23 – Do all to the glory of God

“All things are lawful,” but not all things are helpful. “All things are lawful,” but not all things build up.
1 Corinthians 10:23

Out of His love for you, God gave you freedom of choice. He could have created you to be a robot required to do His will. Instead, He gave you freedom, knowing that, at times that freedom would cause Him great pain as your Father because you would turn away from him and make sinful choices

Use discernment and a conscience led by the Holy Spirit that honors God and follows His will.

5. Galatians 3:22 – A promise by faith

But the Scripture imprisoned everything under sin, so that the promise by faith in Jesus Christ might be given to those who believe.
Galatians 3:22

The Bible is clear that we all have sinned, yet for those who believe in Jesus, there’s an awesome freedom waiting for you.

6. John 10:10 – Jesus gives abundant life

The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.
John 10:10

This is one of my favorite passages in Scripture because it talks about a full, incredible life that is yours when you trust in Jesus. The word “abundant” means “full to overflowing.” Do you feel like your life is overflowing – with blessings, joys, and challenges, even the dirty laundry basket? I do!

That’s why I named this site “The Holy Mess.” When you give your life (the good and the bad) to God, He makes it holy.

Check out my friend Sarah Ann at Proverbs 31 mentor who gives a deeper explanation about what abundant life means.

7. Hebrews 9:15 – Jesus is the mediator between God and man

Therefore he is the mediator of a new covenant, so that those who are called may receive the promised eternal inheritance, since a death has occurred that redeems them from the transgressions committed under the first covenant.
Hebrews 9:15

Jesus is the mediator, or go-between, for God and man. Because God is perfect, you cannot come to him in your sinful state. You can’t do it alone, but Jesus makes it possible. Because of His sacrifice on the cross, you can come directly to the throne of God.

When God looks at you, he doesn’t see your sins, mistakes, and failures. He sees Jesus.

8. 2 Peter 2:19 – You are a slave to what overcomes you.

They promise them freedom, but they themselves are slaves of corruption. For whatever overcomes a person, to that he is enslaved.
2 Peter 2:19

This passage is taken from 2 Peter chapter 2, a challenging section of the Bible about false prophets and teachers. While it isn’t the easiest to read, this is an important set of verses for Christians to understand because God is giving you guidelines for how to know if teachers are false.

The passage talks about the fact that false teachers will rise up. It goes on to explain that God cast out the angels who sinned and did not spare the people in Noah’s time but destroyed the world with a flood. While God has promised never again to flood the world, the message is clear that God will take this false teaching seriously.

When someone is living a life giving in to sensual passions (2 Peter 2:18), the Bible says they are slaves to corruption. This is an important warning for you (and me) to watch for false teachings and guard your heart to stay connected to Christ.

9. Galatians 3:13 – Christ became a curse for us.

Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us—for it is written, “Cursed is everyone who is hanged on a tree”—
Galatians 3:13

I once heard a pastor preach on this verse from Galatians 3. He said that Jesus didn’t just take on the weight of sin for us, but He became sin in our place. That means that during that moment before death on the cross, Jesus became the tax collector, the thief, the glutton, and the prostitute.

Whoa, those are powerful words. When I heard the pastor preach that, I cringed that anyone would speak about Jesus that way…yet it hit home. The sacrifice Jesus made for you and me was ultimate.

10. Romans 6:14 – Sin has no dominion.

For sin will have no dominion over you, since you are not under law but under grace.
Romans 6:14

You are free! You have freedom in Christ from anything that is binding you today. Proclaim this truth over your life. Write it on a card, speak it out loud, and remind yourself daily that Jesus has broken the chains and you are free.

11. 1 Corinthians 8:9 – Don’t create a stumbling block

But take care that this right of yours does not somehow become a stumbling block to the weak.
1 Corinthians 8:9

This passage in 1 Corinthians gives us a challenge. While God gives you freedom, being wise with your liberty is also important.

Ensure your freedom doesn’t jeopardize someone else who might find it tough to see. Consider that what you do or say might affect others, especially those who could use extra understanding. Strive to balance your freedom with empathy and awareness for those around you.

12. Romans 6:7 – With death, you are set free from sin.

For one who has died has been set free from sin.
Romans 6:7

Some of the toughest times I’ve experienced in life were the death of my parents. My dad died when I was a young adult, and my mom died at a fairly young age from health complications.

I’m sure the death of loved ones has touched your life, too. During your moments of grief, take comfort that you will see your loved ones again in heaven. When they died, they were set free from this world’s pain, which includes the weight of sin.

13. Romans 7:6 – Serve the Spirit in a new way

But now we are released from the law, having died to that which held us captive, so that we serve in the new way of the Spirit and not in the old way of the written code.
Romans 7:6

Through your salvation and trust in Jesus Christ, you are released from the burden of strict adherence to rules and regulations. The Jewish people in Jesus’ time lived under the burden of a huge list of rules. While these were originally set with good intentions (to honor the Lord), living with such a long list of rules became impossible.

Part of your freedom in Christ is having a relationship with Jesus. More than your obedience, God desires your worship.

God wants to spend time with you. He longs to connect with you because He loves you.

14. 2 Corinthians 3:17 – Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom

Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.
2 Corinthians 3:17

This is one of my favorite passages about freedom in Christ because it’s a powerful reminder that freedom is mine right now. You have freedom when the Holy Spirit is at work in your life.

You may read this today and feel the burdens of guilt and shame. You may wonder if God will forgive you again for that pet sin you continue to commit. I wonder if God is sick and tired of my overeating, gossiping, or falling back into anxiety and worry.

Maybe you are struggling with your sense of worth. Do you feel inadequate to the tasks God has placed before you? I often do. How can I be a good enough mom, a better wife, a stronger leader?

I am not strong enough for these tasks, but God is. Today, I place my trust in Him.

15. John 8:36 – You are free indeed

So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.
John 8:36

Do you ever feel like you are not free? You have obligations, expectations, and commitments, not to mention past regrets, guilt, embarrassment, and shame that weigh you down. Use this passage from John 8 as a reminder that you are free indeed.

16. 1 Corinthians 6:12 – All things are lawful, but I will not be dominated

“All things are lawful for me,” but not all things are helpful. “All things are lawful for me,” but I will not be dominated by anything.
1 Corinthians 6:12

God blessed you with incredible choice because He gives you free will. As wonderful as this freedom is, you must use it wisely. Yes, you are free to make choices, but it’s important not to choose behaviors, situations, or a lifestyle that will ultimately dominate you.

Anyone who struggles with an addiction will tell you that they live a life that feels like the opposite of free. God’s Word reminds you that while you are free to make choices, you also need to be careful in what you choose.

17. Galatians 5:13-14 – Use your freedom to serve others

For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. For the whole law is fulfilled in one word: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”
Galatians 5:13-14

Here’s an interesting question to consider. How can you use your freedom in Christ to serve others?

A few ideas to consider:

Do you have free time to give a friend or loved one?
You have the freedom to choose a career, hobbies, and activities where you can be of service.
How can you use your choices to serve in your church and community?
You have freedom of religion. How can you use that freedom and not take it for granted?

18. Galatians 5:1 – Do not submit to the yoke of slavery

For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.
Galatians 5:1

For most of my life, I struggled to make healthy food choices. I want a binge eater, a compulsive overeater, and an emotional eater. I was also a Christian.

This led me to feelings of internal conflict and confusion. How could I be saved by grace and yet continue in this sinful behavior?

While I had freedom in Jesus, I wasn’t walking in it. Through therapy, spiritual work, and growing in compassion, I learned to embrace the freedom God was calling me into.

19. Ephesians 3:12 – Confidence through faith

…In whom we have boldness and access with confidence through our faith in him.
Ephesians 3:12

The most amazing freedom we have is approaching God’s throne of grace. Jesus is our mediator, and because of His death and resurrection, we can boldly come directly to God.

20. Psalm 119:45 – Walk in wide places

and I shall walk in a wide place,
for I have sought your precepts.
Psalm 119:45

Psalm 119 gives us many beautiful word pictures that describe who we are in Jesus. Verse 45 says we can walk in the wise places. I picture a large open road with a view of the horizon and the ability to see for miles. This is a picture of your freedom to walk with God today.

21. Acts 13:38-39 – Everyone who believes is freed

Let it be known to you therefore, brothers, that through this man forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you, and by him everyone who believes is freed from everything from which you could not be freed by the law of Moses.
Acts 13:38-39

The Bible includes messages of God’s Law, especially the Ten Commandments. The Law tells you the ways you are to act and obey. Because of sin, none of us can follow the Law.

This would seem hopeless if it weren’t for Jesus. You now have God’s grace and mercy because Jesus paid the ultimate sacrifice for you. This is the beautiful message of the Gospel.

The Law shows us our sins. The Gospel shows us our Savior.

22. Romans 6:22 – Free from sin & slaves to God

But now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves of God, the fruit you get leads to sanctification and its end, eternal life.
Romans 6:22

This passage in Romans explains that when you were caught up in sinful life choices, you had the “freedom” to do what you wanted, yet you weren’t truly free. You have true freedom with a new life in Christ because it leads to sanctification. Sanctification is the process of the Holy Spirit molding you.

You won’t achieve perfection in this lifetime, but the more you allow the Holy Spirit to work in you, the more He molds you to become like Christ.

23. Colossians 1:21-23 – You are holy, blameless, and above reproach

And you, who once were alienated and hostile in mind, doing evil deeds, he has now reconciled in his body of flesh by his death, in order to present you holy and blameless and above reproach before him, if indeed you continue in the faith, stable and steadfast, not shifting from the hope of the gospel that you heard, which has been proclaimed in all creation under heaven, and of which I, Paul, became a minister.
Colossians 1:21-23

Through Jesus’ death on the cross, you are reconciled (made right) with God. This isn’t something you could ever achieve on your own. Through Jesus’ sacrifice for you, you are holy and blameless.

24. Romans 8:20-21 – Someday creation will be set free

For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of him who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to corruption and obtain the freedom of the glory of the children of God.
Romans 8:20-21

The Bible says that creation itself groans under the weight of sin. This article from Crosswalk explains how the whole world groans. Yet this isn’t a reason to despair. Someday, there will be a new heaven and earth, as the book of Revelation promises.

25. Romans 8:1-4 – There is no condemnation in Christ Jesus

There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death. For God has done what the law, weakened by the flesh, could not do. By sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin,he condemned sin in the flesh, in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.
Romans 8:1-4

Because of Jesus, God does not condemn you. Instead, you are set free. Now, you walk according to the Spirit. That means you are no longer a slave to anything of this world.

26. Isaiah 61:1-3 – Proclaim liberty for the captives

The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me,
    because the Lord has anointed me
to bring good news to the poor;
    he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,
to proclaim liberty to the captives,
    and the opening of the prison to those who are bound.

To proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor,
    and the day of vengeance of our God;
    to comfort all who mourn;
to grant to those who mourn in Zion—
    to give them a beautiful headdress instead of ashes,
the oil of gladness instead of mourning,
    the garment of praise instead of a faint spirit;
that they may be called oaks of righteousness,
    the planting of the Lord, that he may be glorified.
Isaiah 61:1-3

The prophet Isaiah was sent to proclaim God’s favor. (These words are also a prophecy of the Messiah coming.) Isaiah 61 says that God will turn your mourning into ashes and give you a garment of praise.

God will turn your mess into your message and your test into your testimony.

27. 2 Timothy 1:7 – Not a spirit of fear but of power

For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.
2 Timothy 1:7

Do you have worries that keep you up at night? Are you anxious? If so, you aren’t alone. I have worries, too. I worry about my kids, finances, business, and more. I second-guess things I say in conversations and wonder about what people are thinking of me.

When I have doubts and anxiety that consume me, I turn to this passage in 2 Timothy and read God’s Words as a reminder that fear is not of God. I have power, love, and self-control.

28. Luke 4:18 – The Spirit of the Lord is upon me

“The Spirit of the Lord is upon me,
    because he has anointed me
    to proclaim good news to the poor.
He has sent me to proclaim liberty to the captives
    and recovering of sight to the blind,
    to set at liberty those who are oppressed.
Luke 4:18

In Luke 4, Jesus stuns the crowd and the teachers of the Law when he reads this passage from Isaiah (one of the earlier verses). Jesus boldly states that He is the fulfillment of this prophecy.

Jesus was anointed.

Jesus came to proclaim good news to the poor.

Jesus came to bring liberty to the captives, which includes you and me. Amazing!

29. James 1:25 – Be a doer who acts

But the one who looks into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and perseveres, being no hearer who forgets but a doer who acts, he will be blessed in his doing.
James 1:25

When you hear God’s Word, your task is to put His desires into action daily. Simply listening to preaching or reading the Bible isn’t enough. Take what you learned and act on it.

Being a doer of God’s will isn’t to earn salvation. Salvation is yours because of Jesus. The goal is to put it into practice as an offering to God.

Theophan the Recluse says this,

“The goal of human freedom is not in freedom itself, nor it is in man, but in God. By giving man freedom, God has yielded to man a piece of His Divine authority, but with the intention that man himself would voluntarily bring it as a sacrifice to God, a most perfect offering.”
Theophan the Recluse

30. Psalm 91:14-15 – God will deliver and protect you

“Because he holds fast to me in love, I will deliver him;
    I will protect him, because he knows my name.
When he calls to me, I will answer him;
    I will be with him in trouble;
    I will rescue him and honor him.
Psalm 91:14-15

Psalm 91 is a beautiful reminder of the goodness, protection, and honor that God gives you as His child. No matter what troubles you face today, God promises to deliver you.

Which of these verses is most meaningful to you? Share about it in the comments below.