Redeemed by the Blood of the Lamb

Re d ee me d b y th e B l o o d o f t he L amb Ephesians 1:7-8 Context • The Call to Worship (v. 3) • The Why’s of Worship: 1. 2. 3. 4. Blessed us with every blessing (v. 3) Chose us before time began (v. 4) Predestined us for adoption as sons (v. 5) Graced us in the Beloved (v. 6) • Now, Paul is going to expand on graced with the word redemption. Redemption Stated A. Slavery – 30-40% of Romans living on the Isthmus of Italy were in bondage. B. Release – manumission by payment of a “ransom” C. Rich Old Testament Usage – • • • • Exodus 6:6, “I will redeem you with an outstretched arm” Ruth 4:14, “Blessed be the LORD who has not left you without a redeemer … ” Psalm 103:4, “Bless the LORD … who redeems your life from the pit” Isaiah 43:1, “Fear not, I have redeemed you!” Redemption Explained A. The Price: The Blood of Jesus Christ • • • Leviticus 16 – Day of Atonement Hebrews 9:22 – “without the shedding of blood, there is no forgiveness of sins” Ephesians 2:13 – “brought near by the blood of Christ” B. The Effect: Forgiveness • • Definition: release, cancellation Trespasses: violation, serious overstepping, see Romans 5:15-20 Redemption Expanded (1:7b-8) A. Redemption flowing from the riches of His grace (see Revelation 5:12) B. Redemption that is lavished – abounding, overflowing (best example: twelve overflowing baskets of bread and fish in Matthew 14:20) C. Redemption that is expertly applied – in all wisdom and prudence (God’s redemption wasn’t neither haphazard nor emotional, but measured and executed). Redemption: 4 Biblical Responses 1. Worship – Psalm 103:1-4, “Bless the LORD … who redeems your life from the pit.” 2. Forgiveness – Matthew 18:23-34, “Should you not have had mercy on your fellow servant?” 3. Security – Exodus 15:13, “You have led in your steadfast love the people whom you’ve redeemed.” 4. Courage – Isaiah 43:1, “Fear not, for I have redeemed you”