Jubilee: The Redemption of My Servants - Leviticus 25:35-55

Christians talk a lot about "redemption." We are "redeemed" by the blood of the lamb! Leviticus 25 is where we learn what redemption means.

To redeem is to buy something back. We still use the term to talk about buying something back. You can "redeem" a coupon or a gift card – and investors use it in a variety of ways.

In Hebrew there are two words that are often translated "redeem." The other word is more closely related to the idea of "ransom" or "rescue." To redeem (ga'al in Hebrew) expresses not just a financial transaction, but also a personal relation. Redemption (ge'ulla) is properly done by a kinsman – one who stands in close relation to you.

Think about Boaz redeeming Ruth (and really, Naomi). Boaz became their redeemer.

Redemption is both an economic activity and a personal activity.

We saw this morning in Psalm 19, that the LORD is my rock and my redeemer. And truly – with respect to our salvation – the Lord Jesus Christ is the only redeemer of God's elect!

But just as Leviticus 25 speaks of "redemption" in more "earthly" ways, so also today, we should not be afraid to use the term in an analogical way as well!

If Christ redeemed us from our sins with his precious blood – then we should be willing to "redeem" others. Obviously we cannot redeem them from sin! But when they are in distress, we can redeem them from lesser troubles...