This is a summary of a part of chapter five of Dr. Kevin McGary’s book, Freed to Be Servant and Slave (available on Amazon).

The Desperate Human Condition

We all have a deep spiritual need for Jesus. It’s not just about believing in Him as our Savior but also accepting Him as our Lord. This need becomes crystal clear when we look at the world around us. Sometimes, it feels like we’re stuck in a system that doesn’t align with what we know is right. It’s in these moments of desperation that we realize how urgently we need to change.

Many experience this feeling—going through the motions of life while sensing something is off. It’s like trying to fit a square peg into a round hole. That’s when it becomes clear that more than belief is needed—transformation is essential.

True Freedom Through Lordship

Jesus promises us freedom and rest when we let Him take charge of our lives. It’s like handing over the steering wheel to someone who knows the road better than we do. When we do this, we find a kind of peace that we can’t get anywhere else.

But here’s the thing – if we don’t fully embrace Jesus as our Lord, we leave ourselves open to all sorts of negative influences. It’s like leaving the door unlocked and being surprised when unwanted guests show up.

The Mandate to Be Born Again

Jesus talked about being “born again” in John 3:1-6. It’s not just a fancy phrase – it’s essential for really seeing and experiencing God’s Kingdom. Think of it like this: Our old way of thinking and living needs to take a back seat so our spirit can grow and thrive.

It’s not always easy, though. I’ve found that letting go of old habits and ways of thinking can be tough. But the growth that comes afterward is worth it.

Coming to the End of Self

Real change starts when we’re ready to give up control. It’s about surrendering our will, our desires, and even our identity. This might sound scary, but it’s freeing.

Our old self, the part of us that’s tied up in sin, needs to step aside. It’s like cleaning out a cluttered room to make space for something beautiful.

Dying to Live: The Paradox of Kingdom Life

Here’s a mind-bender for you: In God’s Kingdom, dying leads to living. When we let go of our attachment to the world, we open the door to a whole new life.

Jesus showed us this in the most powerful way through His crucifixion. He gave up everything, and in doing so, He made a way for us to have new life.

Servant vs. Slave: The Kingdom Hierarchy

There’s a difference between being a servant and being a slave of Christ. A servant works for someone, but a slave belongs to someone. In God’s Kingdom, being a “slave” to Christ means we’re fully committed to Him.

Jesus said that the way to be first in His Kingdom is to be the servant of all (Matthew 20:26-27). It’s a complete flip of how the world usually works!

The Danger of Divided Allegiance

Many of us try to have it both ways – following Jesus while also trying to fit in with the culture around us. But Jesus said we can’t serve two masters. When we try, we end up feeling torn and unstable.

Trying to keep one foot in each world doesn’t work, and it leaves you feeling confused and unsatisfied.

The Spread of Heresies and Cultural Bondage

Sometimes, ideas creep into the church that sound good but lead us away from Jesus. These can be political ideas or cultural trends that seem right but don’t line up with what Jesus taught.

When church leaders and members get too caught up in these trends, it can cause problems. The church starts to lose its unity and its focus on Jesus.

The Call to Full Surrender and Glory Through Death

The only way to shine as lights in the darkness is to surrender to Jesus fully. It means letting our old selves “die” so that Jesus can live through us.

When the church is fully committed to Jesus – and only to Jesus – we can truly reflect His glory and fulfill His purpose for us.

“For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it.” – Matthew 16:25

This journey isn’t always easy, but it’s worth it. When we choose to serve Jesus alone, we find a freedom and purpose that nothing else can match.