Topical Encyclopedia The term "releasest" is an archaic form of the verb "release," which appears in various contexts throughout the Bible, often associated with the act of setting free or granting liberty. In the biblical narrative, the concept of release is deeply intertwined with themes of forgiveness, redemption, and divine mercy.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, the idea of release is prominently featured in the laws concerning the Sabbatical Year and the Year of Jubilee. According to the Mosaic Law, every seventh year was to be a Sabbatical Year, a time when the land was to rest, and debts were to be forgiven. Deuteronomy 15:1-2 states, "At the end of every seven years you must cancel debts. This is how it is to be done: Every creditor shall cancel any loan they have made to a fellow Israelite. They shall not require payment from anyone among their own people, because the Lord’s time for canceling debts has been proclaimed." The Year of Jubilee, occurring every fiftieth year, expanded on this concept by mandating the release of slaves and the return of property to its original owners (Leviticus 25:10-13). This year was a profound symbol of liberation and restoration, reflecting God's desire for justice and equity among His people. New Testament Context In the New Testament, the theme of release is most vividly illustrated in the ministry of Jesus Christ. Jesus proclaimed His mission in terms of release and freedom, as seen in Luke 4:18-19 , where He reads from the scroll of Isaiah: "The Spirit of the Lord is on Me, because He has anointed Me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent Me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor." The concept of release in the New Testament is not limited to physical liberation but extends to spiritual freedom from sin and death. Through His sacrificial death and resurrection, Jesus provides the ultimate release from the bondage of sin, offering eternal life to all who believe in Him (Romans 6:22-23). Theological Significance Theologically, the concept of release underscores the nature of God's grace and mercy. It highlights the divine initiative in setting humanity free from the consequences of sin and the law. The release from debt and slavery in the Old Testament foreshadows the spiritual release offered through Christ in the New Testament. The practice of release also serves as a model for Christian conduct, encouraging believers to forgive others as they have been forgiven by God. This is encapsulated in the Lord's Prayer, where Jesus teaches His disciples to pray, "And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors" (Matthew 6:12). Practical Application In practical terms, the principle of release calls Christians to live lives marked by forgiveness, generosity, and compassion. It challenges believers to reflect God's character in their relationships, promoting reconciliation and peace. The biblical mandate to release others from debts and obligations serves as a reminder of the freedom and grace that believers have received through Christ, urging them to extend the same to others. Concordance Releasest (1 Occurrence)John 19:12 Thesaurus Releasest (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Releasest (1 Occurrence). John 19:12 From this time Pilate sought to release him; but the Jews cried out ... /r/releasest.htm - 6k Released (52 Occurrences) Releasing (3 Occurrences) Making (644 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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