The Liberating Life of Jesus: Finding Freedom in Christ Between the Two Extremes of Law and License

by John Van Gelderen

As a young Christian minister, John Van Gelderen held to the letter of the law, focusing on separation from the world. Then the Lord showed him that much of his Christian life was works oriented instead of Spirit filled. John needed to change his focus from the law to the person of Jesus.Other Christians focus on an opposite a lax version of Christianity, which seeks to avoid legalism but actually embraces its own ideas of freedom that can lead to fleshly living. This leads to license.To live the Spirit-filled life, our goal cannot be law or license. It must be a Jesus. The Liberating Life of Jesus shows us that in Jesus, we are free—not controlled by legalism or led astray by license. This is true Christian liberty found in the liberating life of Jesus!

94 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 25, 2020

Reviews

[John Uit de Flesch · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very helpful book explaining the ditches of legalism and laxity. While a short general book, it is a good summary. His points are helpful, especially noting a lack of dependence upon Gods Spirit. The author does admit his background used to be the law approach and at times he gives a fuller and more detailed explanation away from the law side. I feel he overplays his hand at times, such as suggesting we ought not use the term “pastoral authority.” He also seems to make a 1:1 connection between the Mosaic Law of Galatians and the legalist standards driven approach. I feel this is an over simplification that can miss and distort some truths. Chapter 8 is especially helpful to pastors and those who have been under dictatorship styles.

[Kristi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely an excellent book! I highly recommend for anyone who has been caught between the views of legalism and license. Very simple in its message and a quick read. I took my time with this one simply because it brought up so much to think about and discuss!

[Dennis Blankenship · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a book that has the potential to help many! Dr. Van Gelderen has given us a very balanced approach to Christian Liberty. No only does he address the dangerous law approach to Christian growth, but also addresses the lax approach, where sinful liberties are taken in the name of grace.
I wished this book had been available to me as a new Christian, when I was under a law based ministry. It would have helped my struggle in a great way.
Read this book! Buy some for your friends and learn about Jesus the bondage breaker!

[Dawn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good discussion on the fundamental issue for people since Jesus Christ came to earth and fulfilled the law. Are we going to follow Him? He won’t force our decision, but the choice we make is the most important one of our life. Yes, we can follow after others in our sphere. But following them will not bring eternal life and peace. Yes, we can go our own way. Once again, we may attain temporary happiness, but our eternal soul will be dammed.

It really doesn’t matter what others do. Each one of us has to make this decision.

[Jason Shirk · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book

For years I have been trying to explain this other approach to standards and leadership but was missing the main thing. I am great full for the realignment.