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The Goal of Redemption

The Goal of Redemption

by Robert B. Thompson
As I pondered this essay I became aware that Christianity in America is at a low ebb, as far as faithful adherence to the written Word, and an understanding of the Divine redemption, are concerned. I wonder if there is any place in the world where there are genuine disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ who are hearing what Jesus is saying to us in our day.
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I believe we Christians use the term "salvation" more often than we do "redemption." Perhaps this is unfortunate, in that "redemption" may cause us to think about what God intends to take place in us.
The word "salvation," or "save," occurs many times in the Bible.
And Moses said unto the people, Fear ye not, stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord, which he will shew to you to day: for the Egyptians whom ye have seen to day, ye shall see them again no more for ever. (Exodus 14:13)
I think the general meaning of deliverance from peril of some sort is often the meaning of "salvation," as it is used in the Old Testament.
In the New Testament, I would say the usage of "salvation" appears to have more to do with deliverance from the wrath of God and escape from punishment and destruction, particularly in a spiritual sense.
Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. (Acts 4:12)
I have not checked the use of the term in all the verses of the Bible; but I have read the Bible several times and the impression I have received is as I have expressed above.
I believe that today by being "saved" we mean escaping Hell and going to a mansion in Heaven after we die. Since there is no Bible basis for a mansion in Heaven, we will content ourselves with saying by being "saved" we mean escaping Hell and going to Heaven when we die.
Kindle Edition, 18 pages

Published October 9th 2013

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