Consecration in the biblical context refers to the act of setting apart a person, object, or place for a sacred purpose. It is a significant theme throughout the Scriptures, emphasizing holiness and dedication to God. The concept of consecration is rooted in the Hebrew word "qadash," which means to be holy or set apart.

In the Old Testament, consecration is often associated with the priesthood and the tabernacle. For instance, in Exodus 28:41, God commands Moses regarding Aaron and his sons: "After you put these clothes on your brother Aaron and his sons, anoint and ordain them. Consecrate them so they may serve Me as priests." This consecration involved rituals such as washing, anointing with oil, and offering sacrifices, symbolizing purification and dedication to God's service.

The consecration of objects and places is also evident. The tabernacle and its furnishings were consecrated to the Lord, as described in Exodus 40:9: "Take the anointing oil and anoint the tabernacle and everything in it; consecrate it and all its furnishings, and it will be holy." This act signified that these items were set apart for divine worship and not for common use.

In the New Testament, consecration takes on a more personal and spiritual dimension. Believers are called to consecrate themselves to God, living lives that reflect His holiness. Romans 12:1 exhorts, "Therefore I urge you, brothers, on account of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, which is your spiritual service of worship." This passage highlights the believer's call to live a life dedicated to God, marked by holiness and service.

Consecration is not merely an external ritual but an inward transformation. It involves a heart fully devoted to God, as seen in 2 Corinthians 7:1: "Therefore, beloved, since we have these promises, let us cleanse ourselves from everything that defiles body and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God."

Redemption

Redemption is a central theme in the Bible, encapsulating God's plan to deliver humanity from sin and its consequences. The term "redemption" comes from the Greek word "apolutrosis," meaning a release or liberation procured by the payment of a ransom.

In the Old Testament, redemption is often associated with the deliverance of Israel from slavery in Egypt. God declares in Exodus 6:6, "Therefore tell the Israelites: I am the LORD, and I will bring you out from under the yoke of the Egyptians. I will free you from being slaves to them, and I will redeem you with an outstretched arm and with mighty acts of judgment." This act of redemption is a foreshadowing of the ultimate redemption through Christ.

The concept of redemption is further illustrated in the laws concerning the kinsman-redeemer, as seen in the Book of Ruth. Boaz acts as a redeemer for Ruth, highlighting the themes of restoration and provision.

In the New Testament, redemption is fulfilled in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Ephesians 1:7 states, "In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace." Christ's sacrificial death on the cross is the means by which humanity is redeemed from sin and reconciled to God.

Redemption is not only a past event but also a present reality and future hope for believers. Romans 8:23 speaks of the future aspect: "And not only this, 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." This verse points to the ultimate redemption when believers will be fully restored in the new creation.

The doctrine of redemption underscores God's love, grace, and justice, revealing His desire to restore a broken relationship with humanity through the redemptive work of Christ.