What a Privilege!

Daily Devotional – Saturday, July 30, 2022
In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace.
Ephesians 1:7 (NKJV)

Among the Israelites, if a person was unable to pay a debt, he could lose his property or freedom to the creditor. The law provided that a close relative of the poor person could pay off the debt (redeem), hence freeing the victim from embarrassment and slavery (Leviticus 25).

Redeemed by the Blood of Jesus

Misfortunes, natural calamities, mismanagement of resources, laziness, and unbridled pleasure could result in debt slavery.

In the Christian era, the concept of redemption gained currency in light of what Jesus did for us on Calvary. When He died on the cross, Jesus bought us back from the slavery of Satan and sin. The price He paid was His own blood. (Romans 8:23).

Jesus took on the role of a close relative who was able and willing to redeem us. He paid the full debt we owed Satan. Jesus also did something special. He forgave us the sins that had led to our slavery.

Redemption: the Forgiveness of Sins

Paul asserts, “In Him (Jesus), we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace.” (Ephesians 1:7). Divine redemption means forgiveness of the sins that caused our slavery.

God had delivered the same message through Prophet Isaiah: “I have blotted out, like a thick cloud, your transgressions, and like a cloud, your sins. Return to Me, for I have redeemed you.” (Isaiah 44:22).

Jesus has already secured your full redemption. He has blotted out the thick mist of sin that hangs around you. Like the prodigal son, you must now return home to enjoy these privileges.

Prayer
Thank you, Jesus, for redeeming me, a worthless sinner.