Redeemption

The word redemption (ἀπολύτρωσις / apolutrósis -release effected by payment of ransom), as used by Paul, draws from an Old Testament image of the Israelites, where we see how God delivered them from the pain and shame of slavery in Egypt. This slavery represents the bondage of darkness. Similarly, through His Son Jesus Christ, God desires to deliver all people from sin and shame. Christ became the perfect sacrifice to redeem sinners who believe in Him.

A perfect ransom was paid to God to satisfy His wrath against sinners. None will escape the wrath of God, for all have sinned. The only way to satisfy God’s wrath for our sinful debt is by putting our faith in Christ’s perfect propitiation for our sins.

His crucifixion and resurrection can ransom anyone from their sinful condition. The price for the sins of the world has been paid through the holy blood of Jesus Christ shed on the cross. But without repentance and faith in this redemption, no one can be saved from their sins. The wages of sin are suffering and eternal torment in hell.

Being a slave to any kind of sin produces shame, guilt, and suffering. Sometimes, even after knowing God, we choose to live in darkness. When we do so, we invite destruction into our lives. It’s like giving the enemy a legal and open invitation to cause us harm here on earth.

However, if we humbly repent and surrender ourselves to Christ, we will not suffer the consequences of sin. Living in sin builds enmity with God and opens the door for Satan to act in our lives. Yet we must not forget the power of grace and Jesus’ willingness to forgive all kinds of sin. Christ died to redeem us all from our sin. We must repent and believe in Him as the one true living God—the Savior of the whole world.