The phrase “he came to set the captives free” is often used in religious or spiritual contexts, particularly in reference to the mission of Jesus Christ, as described in the Bible. It refers to the idea that Jesus came to release people from various forms of bondage or oppression, both physical and spiritual.
1. Spiritual Liberation: In Christian theology, this phrase is commonly interpreted to mean that Jesus came to free people from sin, guilt, and spiritual death. Through his teachings, crucifixion, and resurrection, he offered salvation and eternal life, breaking the chains of sin and offering freedom to those who believe in him.
2. Physical and Social Liberation: In a broader sense, it can also refer to the idea of freeing people from physical oppression or injustice, such as slavery, captivity, or societal constraints. Jesus’ ministry included acts of healing, helping the marginalized, and confronting the corrupt systems of his time.
The phrase itself is inspired by passages like Isaiah 61:1 in the Old Testament, which Jesus references in Luke 4:18, where he declares that he has come to “proclaim freedom for the prisoners” and “to set the oppressed free.” It symbolizes hope, redemption, and the promise of liberation from all forms of bondage.
