The Established Path of Discipleship

And because of him you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, righteousness and sanctification and redemption, so that, as it is written, “Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord. (1 Cor. 1:30-31)

This is the culmination of a 4-part series. You can read Part 1 here, Part 2 here, and Part 3 here.

Many of you know the feeling: you made the last payment. A few short weeks later, you receive the title in the mail. Now, you, not the bank, own the car. It is a beautiful feeling. However, it pales compared to the profound relief and freedom we feel knowing Christ has paid our greatest debt. When Jesus said it is finished,” before his death, he paid the one and only payment for our sins. Because of our union with Christ, we receive all the benefits of that redemption, a sense of security and peace that surpasses all understanding.

Romans 3:24 reveals that we “are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption in Christ Jesus. Our justification is a benefit of redemption. It is by God’s grace given to us as a gift, and most importantly, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus. We are declared righteous before God through Christ’s life, death, resurrection, and ascension. It is not our obedience that makes us righteous; the active obedience of Jesus Christ imputed to us makes us righteous. Therefore, we never have to worry that our obedience in this earthly life does not measure up. We grow in obedience, of course. Nevertheless, we are forever declared righteous through our redemption, a reassurance that fills us with hope.

Another benefit of redemption is the forgiveness of sins. In union with Christ, “we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins” (Col. 1:14). Elsewhere, Paul says, “In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace” (Eph. 1:7). Many of us know the pain of unforgiveness. We sinned against someone, and we are sorry. We ask for forgiveness and even make restitution where possible but to no avail. The person we offended harbors bitterness toward us for life. This is something we never experience with God. All our past, present, and future sins are forgiven through our redemption. Christ drank the bitter cup for us. Therefore, God forgives and never brings our sins to mind, a relief that fills us with gratitude.

The most significant benefit of redemption is its security. Jesus “entered once for all into the holy places, not by means of the blood of goats and calves but by means of his own blood, thus securing an eternal redemption” (Heb. 9:17). Our redemption is eternal. Charles Spurgeon said, “You cannot sin as much as God can forgive.” You cannot separate yourself from the love of God once you are Christ Jesus (Rom. 8:30). God will never withdraw his redemption. It is final, effective, and eternal. Grieve over your sin, yes. Repent of your sin, yes. But never allow the devil or anyone else to tell you that it will separate you from God. You have forever been brought near by the blood of Christ (Eph. 2:13).

So, rest in these truths, weary pilgrims. As we travel through this life in the city of man, we can rest in these truths as citizens of the city of God. Cast off the shackles of do better, be better, and try harder Christianity. Instead, walk in the freedom of who Christ is for you. He is your wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption.