The Doctrine of Redemption
The Samaritan woman lived an empty life carrying an empty jar. Then she encounteredJesus—the One who offers life to the full. Enslaved by her sin and seeking fleeting
satisfaction, this outcast woman’s life seemed to offer little value in a broken world. Yet Jesus found this woman precious in His sight, and He graciously gave of His time, His love, and His life. Like this woman, all people are broken by sin and ripe for redemption.
The term “redemption” comes from the ancient world of commerce where enslaved people were bought and sold. Jesus has purchased, or redeemed us, from sin’s slavery. Jesus died in our place. His blood frees us from sin’s penalty and power—and ultimately sin’s presence. He transforms our lives, declaring us righteous in His sight.
The Old Testament story of Hosea’s purchase of Gomer exemplifies this transaction.1 In the New Testament, Peter advances this truth in 1 Peter 1:18-19: “It was not with perishable things such as silver and gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your ancestors, but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect.” At the moment of our redemption, we become Christ’s possession.2 We are redeemed from our empty lives and for belonging to Jesus.
Failure to accept Christ’s redemption leads to an empty life void of God’s forgiveness and unable to experience God’s love or wisdom. Those who refuse Christ’s sacrifice remain under God’s wrath and will live separated from God forever.3
Understanding the price Christ paid for our redemption magnifies His grace for sinners. God did not abandon us to our helpless estate.4 Only through faith in God’s Son, Jesus Christ, can our lives be redeemed and transformed. The Holy Spirit seals and indwells believers, who are reborn into a new life and can live a life filled with joy even in the most difficult circumstances. God’s children live as salt and light on earth,5 sharing the good news of the gospel. The redeemed are assured they will worship in God’s presence forever.
The Old Testament story of Hosea’s purchase of Gomer exemplifies this transaction.1 In the New Testament, Peter advances this truth in 1 Peter 1:18-19: “It was not with perishable things such as silver and gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your ancestors, but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect.” At the moment of our redemption, we become Christ’s possession.2 We are redeemed from our empty lives and for belonging to Jesus.
Failure to accept Christ’s redemption leads to an empty life void of God’s forgiveness and unable to experience God’s love or wisdom. Those who refuse Christ’s sacrifice remain under God’s wrath and will live separated from God forever.3
Understanding the price Christ paid for our redemption magnifies His grace for sinners. God did not abandon us to our helpless estate.4 Only through faith in God’s Son, Jesus Christ, can our lives be redeemed and transformed. The Holy Spirit seals and indwells believers, who are reborn into a new life and can live a life filled with joy even in the most difficult circumstances. God’s children live as salt and light on earth,5 sharing the good news of the gospel. The redeemed are assured they will worship in God’s presence forever.
1. Hosea and Gomer: Hosea 3:1-2
2. Christ’s possession: Romans 6:22- 23; 1 Corinthians 6:19-20; Ephesians 1:7
3. Eternal separation: Mark 16:16; John 3:18, 36; 5:28-29; 8:24; 15:6; Revelation 21:8
4. God did not abandon us: John 3:16-18
5. Salt and light: Matthew 5:13-16
Resource: Bible Study Fellowship, People of Promise: Kingdom Divided, Lesson 5, The Gospel of John
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