A Book of Redemption

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ, just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we would be holy and blameless before Him In love He predestined us to adoption as sons through Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the kind intention of His will, to the praise of the glory of His grace, which He freely bestowed on us in the Beloved. In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace which He lavished on us.” Ephesians 1:3-8a

The theme of God’s redeeming love is clearly indicated throughout the Bible. Beginning in the first two chapters of Genesis, we see Redemption Planned. In Genesis 3-11 (the fall and flood), we see Redemption Required. The Old Testament then joins together to show Redemption Prepared in the expectation of the coming Messiah.

When you come to the Gospels, you see Redemption Effected in the coming of Christ, His ministry, and His redeeming work on the cross of Calvary. Redemption Shared is the theme of the book of Acts as the New Testament church begins to develop and grow.

The epistles take on the role of Redemption Explained. Through their teachings, we understand what took place on the cross - how it affects us now and for eternity. Then the final book of the Bible reveals to us Redemption Consummated as we read God’s final plan for humanity.

As you read, be mindful that it all points to God’s great purpose: bringing lost mankind back to Himself. You have been bought, or redeemed, with the price of the precious blood of Jesus. You are of great value in God’s eyes.

Thought for the Day:
Cursed by the law and bruised by the fall, grace has redeemed us once for all.