Open Heaven 27 December 2024 – Redemption

TOPIC: Redemption

MEMORISE:
“In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace;” – Ephesians 1:7 (KJV)

BIBLE READING: 1 Peter 2:6-12 (KJV)

6. Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Sion a chief cornerstone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on him shall not be confounded.
7. Unto you therefore which believe he is precious: but unto them which be disobedient, the stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made the head of the corner,
8. And a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence, even to them which stumble at the word, being disobedient: whereunto also they were appointed.
9. But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light;
10. Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy.
11. Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul;
12. Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Revelation 12-14

MESSAGE

Every human being needs redemption because the natural state of man is bondage to sin. Romans 3:23 declares that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. However, through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, believers are set free from sin’s grip.

“Being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.” – Romans 3:24

Redemption offers numerous blessings, including:

• Forgiveness of sins (Ephesians 1:7)
• Freedom from the curse of the law (Galatians 3:13)
• Righteousness (Romans 5:17)
• Reconciliation with God (Colossians 1:18-20)
• Adoption into God’s family (Galatians 4:5)
• Indwelling of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20)
• Eternal life (John 3:16)

While the Christian lifestyle may seem restrictive to outsiders, true freedom is found in Christ. For instance, a drunkard might mock someone committed to work and discipline, yet it’s the drunkard who remains enslaved to addiction. Similarly, unbelievers are imprisoned by sin, often without realizing it.

Matthew 11:28-30 reminds us that Christ’s yoke is light, offering rest and peace.

When you surrender to Christ, you experience a peace that surpasses understanding. If you haven’t accepted Jesus as your Savior, now is the time to leave the prison of sin and step into the liberty He provides.

KEY POINT

Let the redeemed boldly proclaim their freedom in Christ, for they are free indeed!

HYMN 2: Amazing Grace

1. Amazing grace! How sweet the sound
   That saved a wretch like me!
   I once was lost, but now am found;
   Was blind, but now I see.
2. Through many dangers, toils, and snares,
   I have already come;
   ’Tis grace hath brought me safe thus far,
   And grace will lead me home.
3. The Lord has promised good to me,
   His Word my hope secures;
   He will my Shield and Portion be,
   As long as life endures.
4. Yea, when this flesh and heart shall fail,
   And mortal life shall cease,
   I shall possess, within the veil,
   A life of joy and peace.
5. The earth shall soon dissolve like snow,
   The sun forbear to shine;
   But God, who called me here below,
   Will be forever mine.
6. When we’ve been there ten thousand years,
   Bright shining as the sun,
   We’ve no less days to sing God’s praise
   Than when we’d first begun.

This devotional was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), one of the world’s largest evangelical churches. The Open Heavens Daily Devotional is available on iOS, Android, and other platforms.