Why Trying to Be “Good” Won’t Set You Free — And What Will

In this sermon from Romans 6:14, Jeffrey Johnson explores what it truly means to live free—free from guilt, shame, and the dominion of sin. He begins by encouraging parents, especially mothers, highlighting God’s care for families and children, and then invites listeners to see God’s grace as a vast “mansion,” filled with ever-increasing riches of mercy, compassion, and kindness. Believers are reminded that while they have already experienced God’s grace, there is far more to behold and enjoy as they walk with Christ.

Johnson contrasts two paths to freedom: law and grace. He explains that the law, while holy and just, can only expose sin, increase guilt, and deepen bondage. Rather than freeing the conscience, it condemns and frustrates the sinner, revealing humanity’s inability to meet God’s perfect standard. True freedom—guiltless joy and lasting peace—cannot be found through self-effort or moral striving.

The heart of the message is the liberating power of grace. Through Christ, guilt is removed, condemnation is gone, and believers are declared righteous before God. This grace not only forgives sin but also transforms the heart, producing obedience motivated by love, gratitude, and joy rather than fear. Johnson calls both unbelievers and believers to come boldly to the throne of grace, rest in Christ’s finished work, and live daily under the joyful reality that we are no longer under law, but under grace.