Redemption

Introduction:

What is Redemption?

To understand redemption, we must first understand our condition. Every person, by nature, is separated from God because of sin (Romans 3:23). Sin is a direct offense against a holy God, and its consequence is spiritual death (Romans 6:23). Redemption, in its simplest form, is the act of being bought back, delivered from bondage, or set free from a penalty by the payment of a price. It's about liberation from the slavery of sin and its eternal consequences.

The Origins of Redemption:

A Biblical Context

The concept of redemption is deeply rooted in both Old and New Testament cultures and languages.

Old Testament Roots:

This word often refers to the idea of "to ransom," "to buy back," or "to deliver." It was used in contexts like:Hebrew Term: Padah (פדה): 

God commanded Israel to redeem their firstborn sons and animals, signifying His ownership and their need for a substitute (Exodus 13:13).Redeeming a firstborn: 

If a family member fell into poverty and had to sell their land or themselves into servitude, a "kinsman-redeemer" (Hebrew:) had the right and responsibility to buy them back (Leviticus 25:25, 48-49; Ruth 4:4-6). This kinsman-redeemer had to be related, able to pay the price, and willing to do so. This paints a powerful picture of God's redemptive work.Redeeming property or kin:  go'el

Similar to, this term also means "to redeem" or "to reclaim." It emphasizes the strong, protective action of one who liberates another from distress or bondage, often with the idea of restoration to a previous state. God is often described as theof His people, rescuing them from Egypt and from exile.Hebrew Term: Ga'al (גאל):  padah Go'el 

New Testament Roots:

This means "to buy in the marketplace." It speaks of purchasing someone or something out of slavery or captivity. We were once "bought with a price" (1 Corinthians 6:20; 7:23).Greek Term: Agorazo (ἀγοράζω): 

This term adds the prefix "ex," meaning "out from." It implies buying someone out of the marketplace. This is a crucial distinction—Christ bought us not just to change owners, but to set us truly free forever (Galatians 3:13; 4:5).Greek Term: Exagorazo (ἐξαγοράζω):  never to be sold again

This means "to release by payment of a ransom" or "to set free." It emphasizes the payment of a ransom to secure freedom (Titus 2:14; 1 Peter 1:18-19). The price paid was the precious blood of Christ.Greek Term: Lutroo (λυτρόω): 

Redemption in Scripture:

A Deep Dive

A. Old Testament Anticipation: 

The Old Testament continually points forward to a greater redemption. God's act of redeeming Israel from slavery in Egypt serves as a powerful foreshadowing of the spiritual redemption to come.

"You, in your steadfast love, have led the people whom you have; you have guided them by your strength to your holy abode." (Exodus 15:13, ESV) redeemed

The prophets spoke of a coming day when God would redeem His people from their sins and bring them into a new covenant relationship (Isaiah 43:1; Jeremiah 31:11).

B. New Testament Fulfillment: Christ, Our Redeemer 

The New Testament reveals that Jesus Christ is the ultimate kinsman-redeemer. He is related to us through His humanity, He is able to pay the price because He is God, and He was willing to sacrifice Himself.

The Problem:

Humanity is enslaved to sin and death (Romans 5:12). We cannot free ourselves.

The Price:

The price of our redemption is not silver or gold, but the precious blood of Jesus Christ, the spotless Lamb of God (1 Peter 1:18-19).

"For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life inherited from your ancestors, but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect." (1 Peter 1:18-19, NLT) 

The Accomplishment:

Through His death on the cross, Jesus paid the full penalty for our sins, securing our freedom.

"In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace." (Ephesians 1:7, NIV) 

"For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all." (1 Timothy 2:5-6, ESV)

The Result:

Those who place their faith in Christ are redeemed from the curse of the Law, from the power of sin, and from eternal death. We are declared righteous, adopted into God's family, and given new life in Christ.

"Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us, for it is written: 'Cursed is everyone who is hung on a pole.'" (Galatians 3:13, ESV) 

"He delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins." (Colossians 1:13-14, ESV) 

Voices on Redemption

"Redemption is not merely patching up a broken relationship; it is a complete purchase and a glorious liberation. Christ did not merely repair us; He bought us back entirely, making us His own, wholly and forever." Charles Spurgeon (attributed thought)

"Redemption declares that no matter how deep the pit, no matter how heavy the chains, God's love is greater, and His power is sufficient to set the captive free. It's the story of God reaching down into our mess and paying the ultimate price to bring us into His marvelous light." Ed Newton (attributed thought)

Meaningful Application:

Living as the Redeemed

Understanding redemption is not just an academic exercise; it has profound implications for how evangelical Christians are to live.

Our hearts should overflow with gratitude for the unimaginable cost of our redemption. This leads to heartfelt worship and praise to God. We were purchased for a purpose—to glorify Him (1 Corinthians 6:20). Gratitude and Worship: 

Because Christ fully paid the price, we are truly free from the crushing burden of guilt and shame. We are forgiven, and our past no longer defines us (Romans 8:1). This freedom allows us to serve God without fear. Freedom from Guilt and Shame: 

Being redeemed means we are no longer slaves to sin but servants of righteousness. This calls us to pursue holiness and live in obedience to God's Word, not to earn salvation, but as a response to it (Romans 6:17-18). Holiness and Obedience: 

Just as Christ loved us and gave Himself for us, we are called to love one another. Our redemption story compels us to share the good news of redemption with a lost and dying world. The greatest problem in the world is lostness, and the solution is a personal relationship with Christ, which comes through His redemptive work (John 3:16). Love for Others: 

Our redemption guarantees our eternal security in Christ (John 10:28-29). We can face trials and difficulties with hope, knowing that God, who began a good work in us, will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus (Philippians 1:6). Perseverance and Hope: 

As redeemed individuals, we are called to bear spiritual fruit, living lives that reflect the transforming power of the gospel (Galatians 5:22-23). This includes engaging in evangelism and discipleship, helping others come to know their Redeemer. Bearing Fruit: 

Conclusion: 

The word "redemption" is a cornerstone of the Christian faith. It speaks of God's incredible love, His divine plan, and the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ to set us free. To be redeemed is to be bought back, to be forgiven, to be set apart, and to be given a new life with eternal hope. Let us live each day in the light of this glorious truth.