Freedom or "a new law"

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

One of the hardest things to help inner city youth (or our men and women clients) grasp as we try to disciple them is that following Christ is not about obeying a set of rules. The obedience and life that God calls us to go way beyond following some set of prescribed dos and don'ts. Walking in grace and fellowship with the Father does not always mean that there is an easy right or wrong answer to every question and dilemma we face. Then again, this is one of the hardest things I have to learn as I try to follow Christ, too.

Sometimes I wish I had a handy notebook of rules and prescriptions for any and every situation (some of us are tempted to look at the bible in this way). The false impression we have is that it would be easier to have that rule book than it is to wrestle with the Spirit and the Word and pray that the Father will help me learn to live His way in this moment.

A friend gave me Derek Webb's new album a few weeks ago, and this song has been stuck in my head ever since. (www.derekwebb.com)

A New Law
(vs. 1)
don't teach me about politics and government - just tell me who to vote for
don't teach me about truth and beauty - just label my music
don't teach me how to live like a free man - just give me a new law
(pre-chorus)
i don't wanna know if the answers aren't easy
so just bring it down from the mountain to me
(chorus)
i want a new law
i want a new law
gimme that new law
(vs. 2)
don't teach me about moderation and liberty - i prefer a shot of grape juice
don't teach me about loving my enemies...
don't teach me how to listen to the Spirit - just give me a new law
(pre-chorus/chorus)
(bridge)
what's the use in trading a law you can never keep
for one you can that cannot get you anything
do not be afraid
do not be afraid
do not be afraid

-Jack Crowley, Teen Haven