Yes, God has rescued us from the power of darkness, but also, He “brought us into the kingdom of the Son whom he loves” (Colossians 1:13 ISV).
In the gospel, God not only rescued us from the “burning building” of sin and darkness, but He also brought us into the kingdom of Jesus Christ—the kingdom of light. This is amazing grace, for what good would it do for a firefighter to deposit the one he rescued right on the doorstep of the burning building, where the fire is still burning, and debris is falling? No, a real rescue removes the person far from danger, carrying them off to safety.
“in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins” (Colossians 1:14).
“Redemption” means “to buy back.” If your car is impounded due to unpaid parking tickets, you must pay the necessary fees to have your car returned to you. When you pay, you have “redeemed” your car.
Similarly, Jesus went to the cross and paid the “fine” for your sin, with His own life’s blood, thereby redeeming you. He rescued you by repurchasing you.
Question 5. According to Colossians 1:14, since you have been redeemed, what gift do you have now?
Think about those sins that have dishonored the Lord and hurt you and others. God has forgiven you! Those sins were all placed on Jesus, and He was made accountable for them, and He paid the debt off entirely for you.
Sometimes our sins loom largely in our lives, and they can seem to dominate our entire landscape of thought. Because of this, it is essential right now that you believe what the Bible says.
“in whom you have redemption, the forgiveness of sins (Colossians 1:14).
“...who forgives all your sins” (Psalm 103:3).
“For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more” (Hebrews 8:12).
“Through him everyone who believes is set free from every sin, a justification you were not able to obtain under the law of Moses” (Acts 13:39).
Here is the truth: God has qualified you to share in the inheritance of all believers. He has rescued you from the power of darkness and transferred you to the kingdom of Christ, who redeemed you and forgave all your sins! Please stop a moment and give joyful thanks to the Father!
It is important to know that God has accomplished so much for us at the cross, and yet it is equally important to understand our responsibility in light of what Jesus has done for us.
Let’s finish our time together today by reviewing the following passage:
Ephesians 5:8-12 ESV for at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light (9) (for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true), (10) and try to discern what is pleasing to the Lord. (11) Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them. (12) For it is shameful even to speak of the things that they do in secret.
Question 6. According to Ephesians 5:8, now that Jesus has rescued you from darkness, what is your responsibility?