Monday Meditation
From the desk of Dr. A.J. Higgins
www.heaven4sure.com
REDEMPTION
“The redemption that is in Christ Jesus”
Romans 3:22-26
Redemption would be a word dear to the hearts of Roman slaves. History tells us that there were possibly over one million slaves in Rome at this time. They were frequently the spoils of Rome’s military conquests. The wealth and splendor of Rome was not theirs to enjoy. For them it was only to see and to support.
Into this tragic human misery, the gospel of the grace of God had come. Men realized a bondage far worse than Rome’s as they owned their sin and turned to Christ. In Him they found a redemption which set them free spiritually. Paul now writing to them explains the doctrine of the gospel. Into a small compass of words he packs some of the greatest words in soteriology: justified, redemption, propitiation, blood, remission, righteousness, justifier.
His Jewish readers would immediately understand the “propitiation” or “mercy seat.” The Gentile slaves would thrill at the word “redemption.” All made possible by precious blood.
Question to Consider:
1. As you read from Romans chapter 1:1 to 3:20, what is so significant about Romans 3:21-26? Was there any hope for humanity prior to this paragraph in the epistle?
2. This righteousness, apart from the law, has been witnessed or spoken of in the law and the prophets (v 21). Think of how the law bore testimony to a “without law” righteousness. What about the writings of the prophets?
3. “Justified freely” means “without a cause” in ourselves. Which would be a better definition of grace: receiving what we do not deserve? Or, receiving the opposite of what we deserve?
____________________________________________________________________
This weekly meditation is prepared by Dr. Sandy Higgins. Its purpose is to give believers truth to think about and develop in their own minds and hearts throughout the week. Ultimately, as the week progresses, daily worship will result in hearts full of adoration for the Lord Jesus on the Lord’s Day (Sunday) as believers gather to remember Him.
Print this off. Keep it nearby for the week. Jot down your thoughts and responses to each question. What other questions come to your mind as you meditate on this verse?
