When Jesus answered the disciples’ questions about end-times, He described a fearful period in history: environmental upheavals, violence among people groups and between nations, persecution of believers. But, instead of being frightened when we see those things (or hear them on nightly newscasts), we should realize that the Lord’s return is getting closer. “When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.”” (Luke 21:28)
Redemption speaks of making purchases and of a change of ownership. When you step into a grocery store, all the items on all the shelves belong to the store. But once you go through checkout and pay for what’s in your cart, you are now the new owner. You have redeemed the items. In like manner, the moment you placed your reliance on Jesus as the full payment for your sin, the transaction was rung up and God became your new Owner. Thankfully, He’ll never bring you back for a refund or exchange you for a better model.
So, if Jesus has redeemed us, why do we speak of our redemption drawing closer? Actually, redemption has three phases to it, past, present, and future aspects.
Redemption past – “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.” (Romans 3:23–24).
This speaks of the completed transaction that took place the moment you placed your faith in Christ and received Him as your Savior. Bible students refer to this as our justification. This phase delivers us from the penalty of sin.
Redemption present – “Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—His good, pleasing and perfect will.” (Romans 12:1–2).
“Dear friends, I urge you, as aliens and strangers in the world, to abstain from sinful desires, which war against your soul.” (1 Peter 2:11)
“Continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to His good purpose.” (Philippians 2:12–13).
Redemption also speaks of the entire period from the moment you received Christ to the second you take your last breath. During this time, our primary responsibilities are to obey Christ and tell others about Him. Bible students refer to this period as that of our sanctification. At this phase we are being delivered from the power of sin.
Redemption future – “Not only so, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies.” (Romans 8:23).
This is the phase of eternal life that begins when we die, and it lasts forever. When Jesus returns to the earth, He will give us new bodies that will never grow old or get any diseases. Bible students refer to this as our glorification. When we enter Heaven, we will be delivered from the presence of sin.
I hope this gives you a greater appreciation of your redemption. Having Jesus as our Owner has been an adventure thus far, but our future is out of this world! If you haven’t yet trusted Christ, while you still have breath, I implore you to repent and receive Him.
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