What does "strong is their Redeemer" reveal about God's power and authority? Setting the Scene Proverbs 23:10-11 sets the stage: “Do not move an ancient boundary stone or encroach on the fields of the fatherless, for their Redeemer is strong; He will take up their case against you.” The same ringing declaration appears in Jeremiah 50:34: “Yet their Redeemer is strong; the LORD of Hosts is His name. He will vigorously plead their case...” Both passages confront oppressors who think the powerless are easy prey—and then introduce God with a title that stops every scheme cold. The Weight Packed into “Redeemer” • In Hebrew, “goel” refers to the kinsman-redeemer who buys back lost property, pays ransom, or avenges wrong (Leviticus 25:25; Ruth 4:1-10). • God steps into that family role for His people (Exodus 6:6). • A Redeemer therefore carries legal clout, financial resources, and blood-ties loyalty—all rolled into one. Why “Strong” Matters • Strength here is not abstract muscle; it describes unassailable might that cannot be overruled (Isaiah 40:26). • God’s power works in every sphere: – Legal: He “pleads their case” (Jeremiah 50:34). – Military: He is “LORD of Hosts,” commanding heavenly armies (Psalm 24:8-10). – Personal: He binds Himself to the weak as family (Isaiah 41:14). Authority on Full Display • Sovereign Judge—No human court outranks Him. He sets the verdict and enforces it (Psalm 9:7-9). • Unstoppable Avenger—He overturns land-grabs, slavery, and exploitation (Proverbs 23:10-11; Jeremiah 50:33-34). • Faithful Covenant Keeper—His might is channeled by unwavering promises (Isaiah 54:5-8). • Cosmic Owner—All creation is His jurisdiction; nothing lies outside His reach (Colossians 1:16-17). What It Means for Us • Oppression never slips past heaven’s docket; every injustice will meet omnipotent response. • Safety for the defenseless rests not in personal resources but in God’s unbeatable commitment. • The same power that liberated Israel and raised Christ (Ephesians 1:19-20) now guards believers. • God’s authority carries comfort and accountability: comfort for the humble, warning for the oppressor. Living in Light of a Strong Redeemer • Rely on His strength rather than maneuvering for self-protection. • Treat the vulnerable with the reverence due to people under divine guardianship. • Rest in the assurance that God’s final word cannot be vetoed by earthly powers—“Their Redeemer is strong.” |
    |