James 2:12

"So speak and so act as those who are to be judged under the law of liberty" (James 2:12).

One of the greatest misconceptions concerning the Bible according to skeptics is that it limits free will. Moreover, proponents believe it is culturally irrelevant, narrow-minded, judgmental and restricting of all life has to offer.

They view it metaphorically as a ball and chain, shackling us to standards that are archaic and not applicable to today's society. Simply-stated, they do not place value on the Bible as a compass for moral truth and righteous living, but rather for occasional archeological and historical reference, if any.

For the Christ-follower, the Bible is not only absolute truth but the key that unlocks an immeasurable treasure the world cannot quantify. It loosens the chains of guilt, shame and regret because it provides an eternal way of escape from death and separation from God through forgiveness.

It essentially frees us as a means of liberty (per James) because we were once slaves to our flesh but have been purchased and saved by the blood of Jesus. And it holds us accountable to a standard of righteousness that uniquely identifies us as set apart from society.

Despite the ridicule and persecution we receive for our complete faith and trust in God's Word, we are called to endure and be steadfast. For what we think, say and do define who we are, and that is a privilege every saved by grace Christ-follower is given.

It's a matter if perspective ultimately, where we shift our focus off self and on Christ, but one that is essential, for we recognize and embrace God's judgment that awaits us.

Therefore, we do not live in fear of God's holy wrath because we are no longer bound by our sin. Christ has died in our place, so we live in liberty with the Bible as our measuring stick of accountability in all we say and do. But we must be aware that the world will persecute us for what we believe until the day Christ returns to fulfill what we know to be true.