Redemption in the Old Testament

The concept of redemption in the Old Testament is deeply rooted in the Hebrew word "ga'al," which means to redeem, act as a kinsman-redeemer, or buy back. This is vividly illustrated in the account of Ruth and Boaz, where Boaz acts as a kinsman-redeemer for Ruth (Ruth 4:1-10). The role of the kinsman-redeemer was to protect the family lineage and property, reflecting God's protective and redemptive nature.

God's redemptive acts are also evident in the deliverance of the Israelites from Egypt. In Exodus 6:6 , God declares, "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 redemption from physical bondage is a precursor to the spiritual redemption offered through Christ.

Redemption in the New Testament

In the New Testament, redemption takes on a more profound spiritual significance through the person and work of Jesus Christ. The Greek word "apolutrosis" is used to describe the act of redemption, emphasizing liberation through the payment of a ransom. Ephesians 1:7 states, "In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace."

The sacrificial death of Jesus is central to the New Testament understanding of redemption. Romans 3:24-25 explains, "and are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus. God presented Him as the atoning sacrifice through faith in His blood, to demonstrate His righteousness." This redemption is not only a release from the penalty of sin but also a restoration to a right relationship with God.

Protection in the Old Testament

God's protection is a recurring theme throughout the Old Testament, often depicted through His covenant relationship with Israel. Psalm 91 is a classic passage that highlights God's protective nature: "He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty" (Psalm 91:1). This psalm assures believers of God's protection against various dangers and adversities.

The account of Daniel in the lion's den (Daniel 6) is another powerful example of divine protection. Despite being thrown into a den of lions, Daniel remains unharmed because of his faithfulness and God's intervention. This narrative underscores the belief that God protects those who are faithful to Him.

Protection in the New Testament

In the New Testament, God's protection is often associated with spiritual safeguarding. Jesus assures His followers of divine protection in John 10:28-29 : "I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them out of My hand. My Father who has given them to Me is greater than all. No one can snatch them out of My Father’s hand."

The Apostle Paul also speaks of God's protective power in Ephesians 6:10-11 , urging believers to "be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can make your stand against the devil’s schemes." This passage emphasizes the spiritual armor provided by God to protect believers from spiritual warfare.

Interconnection of Redemption and Protection

The themes of redemption and protection are intricately connected in Scripture. Redemption is the means by which God rescues humanity from sin and its consequences, while protection is the ongoing assurance of God's presence and safeguarding in the believer's life. Isaiah 43:1-2 beautifully encapsulates this connection: "Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; you are Mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you go through the rivers, they will not overwhelm you."

Through both redemption and protection, God demonstrates His unwavering love and faithfulness, offering believers both eternal salvation and daily assurance of His presence and care.