What role does "redemption in Christ Jesus" play in our salvation? The Central Statement: Romans 3:24 “and are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.” What “Redemption” Means - The word pictures a price paid to liberate someone from bondage. - In Christ, the ransom is His own blood (1 Peter 1:18-19; Matthew 20:28). - The result: the captive—every sinner who believes—is released from sin’s penalty and ownership. How Redemption Operates in Our Salvation • Frees us from condemnation – Romans 8:1: “Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” • Satisfies God’s justice – Isaiah 53:5-6 shows the substitutionary sacrifice foretold; Romans 3:25 calls Jesus the “atoning sacrifice.” • Grants legal righteousness – 2 Corinthians 5:21: we become “the righteousness of God in Him.” • Secures eternal belonging – Titus 2:14: He “gave Himself for us to redeem us… and to purify for Himself a people of His own.” • Opens the way for adoption – Galatians 4:4-5: redemption moves us from slaves to sons and heirs. Grace and Redemption—Inseparable Partners - Romans 3:24 links them: “freely by His grace” explains the motive; “through the redemption” explains the means. - Nothing to earn, nothing to add (Ephesians 2:8-9). - Faith simply receives what redemption purchased (Romans 3:28). The Cross: Redemption’s Price Tag 1. Blood shed (Hebrews 9:22). 2. Substitution made (1 Peter 3:18). 3. Debt canceled (Colossians 2:14). 4. Victory declared (John 19:30—“It is finished”). Ongoing Benefits for the Redeemed • Daily cleansing through confessed sin (1 John 1:7-9). • Power to say “no” to ungodliness (Romans 6:6-11). • Hope of full bodily redemption at Christ’s return (Romans 8:23). • Motivation for worship—“Worthy are You… for You were slain, and by Your blood You purchased for God those from every tribe” (Revelation 5:9). Summing Up Redemption in Christ Jesus is the purchased freedom that makes justification possible, satisfies divine justice, and ushers believers into a permanent, grace-filled relationship with God—now and forever. |
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