Savior: The Promise FulfilledSample

To Redeem Humanity Let´s find out today about two terms that we use a lot but don’t always understand completely: redemption and adoption. The word redeem means “to buy out.” The term was used specifically in reference to the purchase of a slave’s freedom. The application of this term to Christ’s death on the cross is quite telling. If we are “redeemed,” then our prior condition was one of slavery. God has purchased our freedom, and we are no longer in bondage to sin or to the Old Testament law. Jesus paid the price for our release from sin and its consequences. His death was an exchange for our lives. In fact, Scripture is quite clear that redemption is only possible “through His blood,” that is, by Jesus’ death (Colossians 1:14). When we hear the gospel, confess our sins, and place our faith and trust in Jesus Christ, we are at that moment born into God’s kingdom. We are adopted as His children and become heirs with God for eternity (Romans 8:14-17). We are set free. We are made heirs. Those two concepts should influence the way we live. Are we living like we’re free from sin? Or are we still slaves to the bondage of it? Are we living as heirs? As daughters with rights and obligations within the family? Or are we living as we please, but trying to enjoy the inheritance? Let´s check today if these two concepts have soaked into our minds and hearts and let´s make them a part of our Christmas celebration. Almighty God, I know I’m Your daughter – You, the Lord of Lords and King of Kings. Help me live every day as Your adopted daughter. Help me remember that my redemption came at the great cost of a glorious exchange. Amen. Mini-challenge: Make the cross a part of your Christmas decorations by using branches, wood, paper, yarn… anything you can find and then display them in your home.