As we continue in our review of our Identity in Christ, this evening we reviewed our Redemption. Our notes were pretty much in alignment as the teacher, Reverend Tom Knupp was clear and concise in his presentation. In this teaching we learned about two elements to redemption — payment and release.

Rev. Knupp taught this through three themes. First was the Past. God authored the payment and release plan before the foundation of the world. The book of Ruth, where the Red Thread is our kinsman redeemer, from the Hebrew word goel. We needed to look at many Orientalisms and figures of speech to really understand the meaning of the actions of Naomi and Ruth in this book of the Bible. One Greek word stood out in this teaching, huiothesia – adoption. Before God adopted us as his children, we were Not my People. Hosea 2:23; Romans 9:25, 26, and 1 Peter 2:9, 10.

Second was the Present and how Jesus Christ accomplished our redemption. He is our kinsman redeemer. He fulfilled the law, was sinless, and by his shed blood all were redeemed.

Ephesians 1:7 in the Amplified Bible

In Him we have redemption (deliverance and salvation) through His blood, the remission (forgiveness) of our offenses (shortcomings and trespasses), in accordance with the riches and generosity of His gracious favor.

Third is the future. The payment has been received, we now await the release from the bondage of corruption with eternal life. Now that we are his adopted children we are heirs together with Christ. We have been bought with a price and our release from sin has been accomplished.

How shall redeemed brothers and sisters in Christ behave? We should, as it says in

1 Corinthians 6:20

For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirits which are God’s.

Next week we are meeting at the beach!