Kelly Kinder opens Ephesians 1:7–8 to show that redemption is not an abstract doctrine but a present reality that changes everything. Continuing the In Christ series, he unpacks Paul’s words: “In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace.” Kelly explains that “we have” literally reads “we are having,” meaning redemption isn’t merely a future hope—it is our ongoing possession right now.

With clear, memorable language, Kelly defines biblical redemption as deliverance by the payment of a price. He traces its rich storyline across Scripture and highlights two key New Testament terms: agorazo (to buy out of the marketplace) and lutroo/apolutrosis (to pay a price to free someone from bondage). A striking West African picture—“God took our heads out”—captures the drama of Christ removing the iron collar of slavery. This costly freedom was bought not with silver or gold, but with “the precious blood of Christ” (1 Peter 1:18 –19).

Kelly then shows how redemption secures complete forgiveness: God removes our sins as far as east is from west, casts them into the depths of the sea, and remembers them no more. This is not forgiveness dispensed by an eyedropper; it flows “according to the riches of His grace, which He lavished upon us.” Like Niagara Falls, God’s grace thunders with superabundance, drowning out accusation and shame. Along with forgiveness, redemption brings “all wisdom and insight” (Eph. 1:8), a Spirit-given discernment that helps believers navigate life (1 Cor. 2:10 ; Col. 2:3; 1 Cor. 1:30 ).

Moving from blessing to application, Kelly confronts the identity lies that keep many Christians living beneath their inheritance—feelings of worthlessness, rejection, and “not-enough-ism.” In Christ, there is no condemnation (Rom. 8:1); divine favor is restored—God is for us (Rom. 8:31 –32); guilt is removed and consciences are cleansed; punishment fell on Jesus, though the Father lovingly disciplines His children; and real joy is possible because we are completely accepted. Through union with Christ we are complete (Col. 2:10 ), and His divine power has already granted everything we need for life and godliness (2 Peter 1:3).

If you’re ready to exchange accusation for assurance, and striving for settled joy, Kelly Kinder invites you to live in the grace of redemption today. Watch and take hold of what is already yours In Christ: freedom, forgiveness, wisdom, and the confident identity of one who has been bought at the highest price.

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