Frederick Douglass once wrote, “A new world had opened upon me” when he escaped slavery. That same joy—deeper, eternal, and soul-changing—is what the Apostle Paul proclaims in Galatians 5. Not freedom from earthly chains, but from the far greater bondage of sin, death, and the devil. In this sermon, we reflect on the life of Frederick Douglass as a powerful illustration of the kind of freedom Paul writes about. We’re reminded that Christ didn’t set us free so we could return to slavery—but to live in joyful, Spirit-filled freedom. We’re not under the burden of proving ourselves to God. Through Jesus’ sacrifice, we are declared enough. We are good with God. We are at peace. We also witness a baptism—Dawson being called into that same freedom. A visible, powerful reminder that God keeps His promises and frees even the youngest soul through water and the Word. So what is your freedom for? Not to indulge the flesh—but to love. To serve. To walk by the Spirit. The good news of Jesus not only frees you, it transforms you. Let the gospel be your guide, your rest, and your strength. “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” — Galatians 5:1 🙏 Subscribe for more gospel-centered messages 📖 Explore Galatians 5 with us 💧 Celebrate the beauty of baptism ❤️ Live the freedom Christ died to give you