How does Leviticus 25:27 connect to the concept of redemption in the New Testament? “he shall calculate the years since its sale and pay back the balance to the man to whom he sold it; then he returns to his property.” A Snapshot of Old-Testament Redemption • Israel’s land inheritance was God-given (Leviticus 25:23). • If poverty forced a man to sell land, the family could “redeem” it—buy it back. • Payment had to equal the remaining value of the years until Jubilee. • Restoration followed full payment: the land returned to its original owner. Foundations Laid for a Greater Redeemer • The “kinsman-redeemer” idea (goel) appears here and in Ruth 4:4-6. • Only a near relative with the full price could bring the restoration. • The process was legal, costly, and covenantal—pointing forward to a perfect fulfillment. New-Testament Echoes • Full Price Paid – Galatians 3:13: “Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us.” – 1 Peter 1:18-19: “You were redeemed… with the precious blood of Christ.” • Restoration of Inheritance – Ephesians 1:11,14: believers receive “an inheritance” guaranteed by the Spirit until final redemption. – Romans 8:23: creation and our bodies await the “redemption”—final return to what was lost. • Near-Kin Identification – Hebrews 2:14-17: the Son took on flesh to be our Brother and qualify as Redeemer. • Jubilee Fulfilled – Luke 4:18-21: Jesus proclaims “the year of the Lord’s favor,” applying Jubilee freedom to His gospel mission. Key Connections • Both covenants require a calculated, sufficient payment. • Both culminate in a return: land for Israel, full inheritance and fellowship with God for believers. • The Old Testament redeemer purchased temporary relief; Christ’s redemption is eternal (Hebrews 9:12). • The ethic of grace extends: just as Israel restored property, the church ministers reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:18-19). Living It Out • Confidence—our Redeemer has settled the account; no debt remains. • Hope—our full inheritance is secure and will be visibly restored at His return. • Gratitude—costly grace fuels worship and generous living toward others who need restoration. |
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