This is an often-quoted verse even outside of the Christian faith.  The cultural belief is that by recognizing the truth of the situation, you will experience some sort of freedom.  But that is not what Jesus is saying in this verse.  He is emphasizing the importance of following His teaching.  And if you become His disciple, you will discover freedom from a life of slavery.  It is interesting that this statement was offensive to some Jews who had initially believed in Him, but they were unwilling to accept the deeper truths about Him.  I believe that many of those who quote this verse today would actually reject being a disciple of Jesus Christ as well. 

The Jews were a proud people.  They were offended by the thought that they were ever in slavery. They had forgotten their history of slavery in Egypt and their times of exile and defeat.  They even seemed to ignore the fact that another conquering country currently controlled their fate.  But most importantly, they did not understand their bondage to sin.  They believed that because the nation of Israel was selected by God, they would always be protected.  They had replaced their obligation and responsibility of following God with feelings of privilege and entitlement.  Because Jesus challenged them to a deeper understanding of discipleship, this group of Jews went from being interested in Jesus to becoming His greatest critics.

So, what is the truth? Everyone has a problem with sin and it is in our nature to be selfish.  Even if we think we are basically good. This sin problem creates a spiritual bondage in our lives.  The only way to be set spiritually free is to recognize the true identity of Jesus Christ as the son of God.   It is through faith that we can have a relationship with Christ.  But it does not stop there!  Because we have experienced His forgiveness for our sin problem, we have an obligation to follow His teachings.  Being a disciple of Christ means that we study His teachings and live a life that pleases God. We do not follow the traditions and rules of a religion so that we look good on the outside. It means that we live a life that is being transformed from the inside out.  Do you know this truth?  If so, you will experience the presence of God and the blessing of spiritual freedom!

Read John 8:31-47