Every July 4th, Americans remember the Declaration of Independence – a bold document that announced freedom from a king and listed the reasons why that separation was necessary.
This year I found myself wondering…
What if Jesus wrote a Declaration of Independence on behalf of everyone who would believe in Him?
I imagine it might read something like this.
A Declaration of Independence
To the ruler of the kingdom of darkness:
Your claim over My people is finished.
You held them captive through sin, fear, guilt, and death.
You blinded their eyes, accused them day and night, and convinced them there was no escape.
But today I declare your authority over all who belong to Me has come to an end.
I have fulfilled every righteous requirement of My Father.
I have carried their sins upon My own body on the cross (1 Peter 2:24).
I have canceled the record of debt that stood against them (Colossians 2:13-14).
I have disarmed principalities and powers and made a public spectacle of them through My victory at Calvary (Colossians 2:15).
By My blood they are forgiven (Ephesians 1:7).
By My wounds they are healed (Isaiah 53:5).
By My resurrection they have been given living hope (1 Peter 1:3).
Therefore, all who trust in Me are no longer slaves to sin (Romans 6:6-7).
They are no longer condemned (Romans 8:1).
They have been transferred out of the kingdom of darkness into My Kingdom (Colossians 1:13-14).
They are no longer your prisoners – they are My sons and daughters (Galatians 4:4-7).
Their citizenship is now in heaven (Philippians 3:20).
Their names are written in the Book of Life (Luke 10:20; Revelation 21:27).
Nothing can separate them from My love (Romans 8:38-39).
This declaration is not temporary. It is eternal.
It is signed, not with ink, but with My own blood.
It is sealed by the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 1:13-14).
And it is guaranteed forever by My resurrection.
“If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” (John 8:36).
– Jesus Christ
As Americans, we are grateful for the freedoms we enjoy in our nation.
They are precious gifts that should never be taken for granted.
But an even greater freedom was secured on another day – not with muskets and signatures, but with nails, a cross, and an empty tomb.
Political freedom can shape a nation.
Spiritual freedom changes eternity.
Today, whether you’re gathering with family, watching fireworks, or simply enjoying a day of rest, take a few moments to thank God for the greatest declaration ever made.
Because if you belong to Christ, you are no longer living under the authority of darkness.
You have been made free.
Happy Independence Day!
(Written by Doug Linser July 2026)
