Colossians 1:14
Verse
Context
Sermons





Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
In whom we have redemption - Who has paid down the redemption price, even his own blood, that our sins might be cancelled, and we made fit to be partakers of the inheritance among the saints in light. The clause, δια του αἱματος αυτου, Through his blood, is omitted by ABCDEFG, and by most others of weight and importance; by the Syriac, Arabic of Erpen, Coptic, Ethiopic, Sahidic, some copies of the Vulgate and by the Itala; and by most of the Greek fathers. Griesbach has left it out of the text. It is likely that the reading here is not genuine; yet that we have redemption any other way than through the sacrifice of Christ, the Scriptures declare not. The same phrase is used Eph 1:7, where there is no various reading in any of the MSS., versions, or fathers. The forgiveness of sins - Αφεσιν των ἁμαρτιων· The taking away of sins; all the power, guilt, and infection of sin. All sin of every kind, with all its influence and consequences.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
(Eph 1:7.) redemption--rather as Greek, "our redemption." through his blood--omitted in the oldest manuscripts; probably inserted from Eph 1:7. sins--Translate as Greek, "our sins." The more general term: for which Eph 1:7, Greek, has, "our transgressions," the more special term.
John Gill Bible Commentary
In whom we have redemption,.... Which is an excellent and wonderful blessing of grace saints have in and by Christ; and lies in a deliverance from sin, all sin, original and actual, under which they are held captive, in a state of nature, and by which they are made subject to the punishment of death; but through the sacrifice of Christ it is taken, and put away, finished, and made an end of; and they are freed from the damning power of it, or any obligation to punishment for it; and in consequence of this are delivered from the enslaving governing power of it by his grace and Spirit, and will hereafter be entirely rid of the very being of it: it consists also of a deliverance from the law, the curse and bondage of it, under which they are held on account of sin, the transgression of it; but being delivered from sin, they are also from the law, its accusations, charges, menaces, curses, and condemnation; as likewise out of the hands of Satan, by whom they are led captive; for through the ransom price paid by Christ they are ransomed out of the hands of him that was stronger than they, the prey is taken from the mighty, and the lawful captive delivered by him that has led captivity captive: in short, this redemption is a deliverance out of the hands of all their enemies, and from all evils and misery, the effects of sin, from death, and hell, and wrath to come. The author of it is Christ, the Son of God, the Son of his love, his dear Son: he was called to this work in the council of peace, in which the affair of redemption was consulted; and he agreed to undertake it in the covenant of grace, of which this is a principal article; and being in his constitution, as Mediator, every way fit and proper for it: as man, the right of redemption belonged to him, being the near kinsman of his people, and, as God, he was mighty and able to perform it; as man he had something to offer, and, as God, could make that sacrifice valuable and effectual to all saving purposes; as man, he had compassion on human nature, and, as God, was concerned for things pertaining to his honour and glory. And thus being every way qualified, he was sent, and came on this errand, and has obtained a redemption, which is precious, plenteous, complete and eternal: it is now with him, and "in him"; and he is made this, and everything else to his people, that they want. The subjects of this blessing are, not angels, but men; and not all men, but some that are redeemed from among men, out of every kindred, tongue, people, and nation; who are called by the name of Jacob, the people of Christ, a peculiar people, and the church of God; and evidentially are such, who have faith in Christ, love to the saints, and good hope of eternal life; who know the grace of God in truth, are made meet to be partakers of the eternal inheritance, being delivered from the power of darkness, and translated into the kingdom of Christ, and are designed by the we in this text: the means by which this blessing is procured, it through his blood. This phrase is left out indeed in the Syriac and Ethiopic versions, and in the Complutensian edition, and in some copies; but rightly stands here, as it does in Eph 1:7, where there is another clause added, which is here omitted, at the end of the verse, "according to the riches of his grace". This is the blood of Christ, his own blood, and not the blood of bulls and goats, and the same with that of the persons he redeems, but untainted with sin; the blood of Christ, as of a lamb without spot and blemish, of original or actual sin, otherwise it would not have been a sufficient redemption price for his people; nor even then, were it not as it was the blood of the Son of God, of one that was God as well as man, whereby it came to have a proper value and efficacy in it to obtain this blessing: Christ's shedding his blood freely on this account is a proof of his great love to his redeemed ones; the efficacy that was in it to answer this purpose shows the dignity and greatness of his person; and it not being to be effected without it, demonstrates the strictness of divine justice, and that the redemption of men is brought about in a way entirely consistent with the righteousness and holiness of God. A particular branch of this blessing follows, and which serves, in some sense, to illustrate and explain it, even the forgiveness of sins; of all sin, original and actual; of heart, lip, and life, secret and open, past, present, and to come; which lies in a non-imputation of sin, a remembrance of it no more, a removing of it entirely out of the way, a covering and blotting it out of sight, so as to be no more visible and legible: this is in Christ, where all spiritual blessings are; nor is it to be had or expected from an absolute God, but from God in Christ, and through him, through his propitiatory sacrifice; for as redemption, so forgiveness of sin is through his blood, which was shed for it; so that it proceeds upon the foot of satisfaction made to the justice of God by a price paid, and is an act of justice as well as grace, and belongs to the same persons as redemption does; hence those that are redeemed are represented as without fault before the throne; and indeed, the reason why their iniquities are blotted out, and will be remembered no more against them, is, because they are redeemed.
Colossians 1:14
Thanksgiving and Prayer
13He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of His beloved Son, 14in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Power of the Blood - Sermon 3 of 5 - Every Blessing by the Blood
By Roy Hession1.9K52:59Blood Of ChristMAT 6:33MAT 16:26EPH 1:7COL 1:14HEB 9:221PE 1:181PE 2:24In this sermon, the preacher discusses the worth of gaining the world at the expense of one's soul and relationship with God. He emphasizes that making such a bargain is a mistake and asks the audience what they can give in exchange for their soul. The preacher then focuses on the power of the blood of Jesus and the immense blessings that come from it. He mentions forgiveness and cleansing through the blood of Christ, using the example of David's repentance in Psalm 51.
That You May Know You Have a Place in Heaven
By Peter Orasuk1.1K21:15HeavenMAT 6:33JHN 3:16COL 1:141JN 5:13In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of knowing and believing in the truth of redemption and salvation. He highlights that there are various views on how a person can be fitted for heaven and have their sins forgiven. The preacher shares a story about a woman named Janet who struggled with understanding how to believe in the right way. He emphasizes that believing in Jesus is not a matter of the head or the heart, but a simple act of faith. The preacher encourages listeners to read and understand the Bible for themselves to grasp the truth of salvation.
(Colossians) the Church's Purpose
By Brian Brodersen91750:25COL 1:14In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being right with the Lord and being freed from worldly attachments. He encourages the listeners to have a vision of what the church is meant to be and to be a part of it. The preacher highlights the contrast between seeking a city built by man versus seeking a city built by God. He also emphasizes the temporary nature of this world and the need to serve the Lord wholeheartedly and bring others into His kingdom. The sermon challenges the listeners to let go of worldly desires and focus on doing the will of God.
The Blood of Christ - What It Does
By Zac Poonen7811:03:15LEV 25:25ROM 5:9EPH 1:7COL 1:141PE 1:191JN 1:7REV 12:11This sermon emphasizes the significance of the blood of Jesus Christ in redeeming and justifying believers, highlighting how the blood cleanses from all sin, brings near to God, and removes the anger of God. It stresses the freedom from condemnation that comes through the precious blood of Christ, allowing believers to walk in the light, justified, and redeemed by His sacrifice.
Question and Answer Evening - 7/31/02
By David Guzik78137:44MAT 6:33COL 1:141TH 5:23In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the transformation that occurred in their life when they encountered the grace of God. They describe feeling unworthy and undeserving, but also grateful for the grace they received. This experience led them to seek solitude and read the New Testament, where they found a verse that deeply impacted them. They felt compelled to share their newfound faith with others and emphasize the purpose and meaning that comes from following Jesus. The speaker also discusses their decision to disconnect from television and how it has brought blessings to their family, allowing them to focus on what truly matters in life.
I Saw One Hanging on a Tree - John Newton (Read )
By Paul West75101:21GraceRedemptionISA 53:5LUK 23:34JHN 3:16ROM 5:8GAL 2:20EPH 1:7COL 1:14HEB 9:221PE 2:241JN 1:9Paul West reflects on John Newton's poignant imagery of seeing Christ on the cross, emphasizing the transformative power of that moment when the weight of sin is confronted. The sermon highlights the deep emotional impact of Christ's gaze, which conveys both the gravity of our sins and the profound grace of forgiveness offered through His sacrifice. Newton's experience illustrates the duality of recognizing our sinfulness while simultaneously receiving the assurance of redemption, encapsulating the mystery of grace that seals our pardon.
The Sense of Salvation
By David Guzik62037:44MAT 6:33COL 1:141TH 5:23In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the transformation that occurred in their life when they encountered the grace of God. They describe feeling unworthy and undeserving, but also grateful for the grace they received. This experience led them to seek solitude and read the New Testament, where they found a verse that deeply impacted them. They felt compelled to share their newfound faith with others and emphasize the purpose and meaning that comes from following Jesus. The speaker also discusses their decision to disconnect from television and how it has brought blessings to their family, allowing them to focus on what truly matters in life.
On Eagles' Wings Pt 49
By Don Courville38030:05Radio ShowJHN 14:9EPH 1:22COL 1:14COL 1:18In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of the blood of Jesus Christ in our lives. He explains that as fallen beings, we are not holy or blameless on our own, but through the control of the Holy Spirit, we can be reconciled to God. The preacher highlights the struggles that teenagers face with self-image and the need for Jesus to set them free from bondage. He also discusses how the scribes and Pharisees rejected Jesus, thinking that getting rid of him would solve their problems, but in reality, they needed to be freed from the Roman Empire. The preacher concludes by urging the listeners to make Christ the Lord of their lives and emphasizes that Christ should have preeminence in all aspects of life.
Why the Precious Blood of Christ
By Peter Brandon645:22The Blood of ChristForgiveness and CleansingPSA 51:10ISA 6:5JHN 1:29ROM 3:10EPH 1:7COL 1:14HEB 9:221PE 1:191JN 1:71JN 2:1Peter Brandon preaches on the significance of the precious blood of Christ, explaining the necessity of blood for forgiveness and the profound implications of Christ's sacrifice. He contrasts parental forgiveness with judicial forgiveness, emphasizing that God must remain just while offering mercy. The sermon highlights the authority and dignity of Christ's blood, which cleanses all sins for all people, and the importance of walking in the light to maintain fellowship with God. Brandon encourages listeners to recognize their need for cleansing and to embrace the transformative power of Christ's sacrifice.
The Blood of the Lamb Has Power
By David Wilkerson1RedemptionPower of Christ's BloodISA 53:5JHN 1:29ACT 16:31ROM 8:1EPH 1:7COL 1:14HEB 9:221PE 1:181JN 1:7REV 12:11David Wilkerson emphasizes the transformative power of the blood of Jesus, which serves as a singular sacrifice capable of cleansing and healing. He reassures listeners that no sin is too great to be forgiven and encourages them to return to God like the prodigal son. Wilkerson urges believers to reject condemnation and fear, affirming that Christ is their righteousness and that they should not return to their past sins. He invites those who have drifted from faith to reconnect with God's love and grace, especially during Easter, reminding them that salvation comes through belief in Jesus. Ultimately, he highlights the hope and freedom found in the cleansing power of Christ's blood.
Two Great Things Which Jesus Christ Undertook
By Thomas Brooks0Christ's SacrificeRedemptionISA 53:5JHN 3:16ROM 5:8ROM 8:12CO 5:21GAL 3:13EPH 1:7COL 1:14HEB 9:281PE 2:24Thomas Brooks emphasizes the two monumental undertakings of Jesus Christ: His suffering for the sins of the elect and His perfect conformity to God's law. He explains that Christ bore the infinite wrath of God for all the sins of His chosen ones, providing full satisfaction for divine justice through His death. Additionally, Brooks highlights that through Christ's obedience to the law, believers are qualified for heaven. This dual act of suffering and obedience not only frees the redeemed from hell but also grants them the promise of eternal life. The sermon underscores the depth of Christ's sacrifice and the completeness of His redemptive work.
Those Spots Which a Christian Finds in His Own Heart
By Thomas Brooks0Purification from SinFaithPSA 51:7ZEC 13:1ACT 15:9ROM 6:14EPH 1:7COL 1:14HEB 9:141PE 1:181JN 1:7REV 1:5Thomas Brooks emphasizes that true faith purifies the heart from sin, likening faith to a diligent housekeeper that not only identifies sin but also actively cleanses it. He illustrates that faith engages Christ's strength to combat sin, transforming the struggle into a divine battle where God fights against sin on behalf of the believer. Brooks highlights that reliance on personal resolutions is futile without Christ, and true victory over sin comes through faith in His power and the application of His blood. He concludes that the only remedy for the spots of sin in a Christian's heart is the cleansing power of Christ's blood, applied through faith.
Atonement Realised
By G.W. North0AtonementNew Covenant vs Old CovenantMAT 26:28JHN 6:53ACT 13:39ROM 8:11CO 12:13EPH 1:7COL 1:14HEB 9:121PE 1:18REV 12:11G.W. North emphasizes the critical distinction between the Old and New Covenants, arguing that many Christians misuse Biblical phrases related to the Blood of Christ due to a lack of understanding. He warns against superstitious practices that treat the Blood as a magical covering, asserting that true protection and redemption come from a deep, personal relationship with Jesus rather than ritualistic applications. North highlights that the early Church did not practice blood-sprinkling or seek protection through the Blood, but rather experienced forgiveness and cleansing through faith in Christ. He concludes that redemption is found in Jesus Himself, not merely in His Blood, and encourages believers to embrace the newness of life in Christ, free from outdated practices. The sermon calls for a renewal of understanding and speech that reflects the fullness of life in the Spirit.
The Messiah Shall Be Cut Off, but Not for Himself
By C.H. Spurgeon0AtonementSacrifice of ChristISA 53:5MAT 26:28JHN 3:16ROM 5:82CO 5:21EPH 1:7COL 1:14HEB 9:221PE 2:241JN 1:7C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the profound truth that Jesus, the Messiah, was cut off not for Himself but for the sins of humanity, highlighting His innocence and the unjust nature of His death. He explains that no sin could be found in Christ, yet He willingly bore the punishment for our transgressions, fulfilling the demands of justice and offering atonement through His sacrifice. Spurgeon urges believers to ensure their personal connection to this sacrifice, reflecting on the importance of recognizing Jesus as their representative and Savior. He reassures that for those who believe, the blood of Christ brings reconciliation and joy, calling for a response of gratitude and dedication to His cause. The sermon ultimately celebrates the love and condescension of Christ in His redemptive work.
We Should Not Sin
By Watchman Nee0ForgivenessAdvocacy of ChristPSA 103:12ISA 1:18JHN 3:16ROM 8:342CO 5:17EPH 1:7COL 1:14HEB 4:141JN 1:91JN 2:1Watchman Nee emphasizes that while God has fully forgiven us for all our sins through Jesus Christ, this grace should not lead us to sin carelessly. Instead, our gratitude for such complete forgiveness should motivate us to live righteously. He reassures believers that even if they do sin, they have an Advocate in Jesus Christ who intercedes for them with the Father, ensuring that forgiveness is always available. This relationship highlights the familial bond between believers and God, reinforcing the assurance of unqualified forgiveness for all. Ultimately, the message calls for a life that reflects gratitude for God's grace.
John 6:59-65. He Explains the Spiritual Meaning of This Declaration.
By Favell Lee Mortimer0JHN 6:60COL 1:12COL 1:14Favell Lee Mortimer delves into the discourse where Jesus' disciples were offended by his teachings on consuming his flesh and blood, highlighting the spiritual significance behind his words rather than a literal interpretation. Jesus explains that true life comes from the Spirit, not from physical elements like bread and wine, emphasizing the importance of faith in his sacrifice. He reveals that belief in him is a gift from the Father, leading many to question their spiritual state and earnestly seek salvation. Mortimer emphasizes the gratitude believers should have for being drawn to Christ by the Father, acknowledging their deliverance from darkness into the light of His kingdom.
Blood of Jesus
By C.H. Spurgeon0RedemptionForgivenessPSA 103:12ISA 1:18ROM 5:9EPH 1:7COL 1:14HEB 9:221PE 1:181JN 1:71JN 1:9REV 1:5C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the transformative power of the blood of Jesus, asserting that it is through His sacrifice that individuals are personally washed, reconciled to God, and granted access to Him. He highlights that the blood of Christ provides complete forgiveness for sins, ensuring that no sin confessed to Him can remain unforgiven. Spurgeon passionately declares that the blood cleanses believers from all unrighteousness, allowing even the most sinful to stand before God without blemish. The vicarious nature of Christ's suffering fulfills divine justice, making it just for God to pardon sin. This profound truth of salvation through the blood of Jesus is a source of deep love and assurance for the believer.
1 John 1:7
By John Gill0Walking in the LightCleansing by the Blood of ChristJHN 8:12ACT 20:28ROM 5:9EPH 5:8COL 1:14HEB 9:141PE 1:181JN 1:71JN 2:1REV 1:5John Gill emphasizes the significance of walking in the light as a reflection of being enlightened by the Spirit of God, which leads to a true understanding of sin and salvation through Christ. He explains that this walking in the light fosters a deep fellowship with God and with one another, highlighting the cleansing power of the blood of Jesus that removes all sin. Gill clarifies that this cleansing is not achieved through human efforts or rituals but solely through the sacrificial blood of Christ, which has eternal efficacy for believers.
Faithful and Just to Forgive
By Horatius Bonar0SalvationGrace Of GodISA 53:5MAT 5:17JHN 3:16ROM 10:42CO 5:21GAL 3:13EPH 1:7COL 1:14HEB 10:141JN 1:9Horatius Bonar emphasizes that our salvation is rooted in the perfect fulfillment of God's law, which was accomplished by Jesus Christ. He explains that Christ, though above the law, willingly became subject to it, fulfilling every requirement and enduring its penalties on our behalf. This act of vicarious law-keeping ensures that believers are redeemed from the curse of the law, highlighting that Christ is not merely a helper but the Savior who fully satisfies the demands of justice. Bonar reassures that through faith in Christ, we receive a holy and righteous salvation, free from the law's claims. Ultimately, he underscores that Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to all who believe.
It Is the Blood That Saves
By Octavius Winslow0AtonementSalvation through Christ's BloodISA 53:5MRK 14:24ROM 5:9EPH 1:7COL 1:14HEB 9:22HEB 10:191PE 1:191JN 1:7REV 1:5Octavius Winslow emphasizes the profound significance of the blood of Jesus in his sermon 'It Is the Blood That Saves.' He explains that the blood represents the new covenant and is essential for atonement, offering forgiveness and healing to sinners. Winslow highlights that faith is necessary to access the saving power of Christ's blood, which must be applied to the conscience for true salvation. He reassures believers that the blood sanctifies, empowers prayer, and ultimately saves from condemnation, leading to eternal life. The sermon concludes with a celebration of the blood's worth and its role in making believers 'kings and priests unto God.'
The Way of Salvation
By J.C. Ryle0SalvationFaithISA 53:5MAT 11:28JHN 1:29JHN 14:6ACT 10:43ACT 13:38ROM 10:9EPH 1:7COL 1:14HEB 9:26J.C. Ryle emphasizes that the way to salvation is through trusting in the Lord Jesus Christ as Savior, urging individuals to cast their souls upon Him without reliance on their own works. He explains that Christ's sacrifice on the cross provides complete satisfaction for sin, offering forgiveness and redemption to all who believe. Ryle reassures that Jesus has removed all barriers between humanity and God, inviting even the greatest sinners to come to Him for salvation. He stresses that faith is the only requirement for forgiveness, encouraging listeners to approach Christ without delay. The message is clear: no matter one's past, Jesus is ready to receive and save those who come to Him in faith.
The Blood of Sprinkling
By G.W. North0RedemptionCleansing through ChristJHN 1:29ROM 5:9EPH 1:7COL 1:14HEB 9:12HEB 10:41PE 1:181JN 1:71JN 3:9REV 1:5G.W. North emphasizes the significance of the blood of Jesus as the ultimate cleansing agent for sin, contrasting it with the Old Testament sacrifices. He explains that while the blood of bulls and goats provided temporary atonement, the blood of the Lamb offers permanent redemption and sanctification, cleansing us from both known and unknown sins. North highlights the importance of walking in the light to experience continuous cleansing and the distinction between sins of ignorance and known sins. He asserts that true believers, while acknowledging their imperfections, are empowered by the blood of Christ to live in fellowship with God without habitual sin. Ultimately, the sermon reveals the profound mystery of redemption through the blood of Jesus, which is effective for all sin, past and present.
The True Salamander's Skin!
By Thomas Brooks0RedemptionAssurance of SalvationPSA 103:12ISA 43:2JHN 3:16ROM 8:1EPH 1:7COL 1:14HEB 9:141PE 1:181JN 1:7REV 1:5Thomas Brooks emphasizes the profound assurance that the blood of Jesus Christ cleanses believers from all sins, providing them with eternal security from the fires of hell. He draws a parallel between the protection of the three Hebrew children in Nebuchadnezzar's furnace and the safety believers have through Christ's sacrifice, assuring that hell's flames will not harm them. Brooks likens Christ to a true salamander's skin, which protects from burning, illustrating that those washed in Christ's blood are shielded from eternal punishment. This message serves as a source of comfort and hope for those who fear the Lord and trust in Christ's redemptive power.
Redeemed and Reconciled
By H.J. Vine0ROM 3:24ROM 5:102CO 5:20COL 1:14COL 1:21HEB 9:121PE 1:18REV 5:9REV 21:9H.J. Vine preaches about the profound concepts of redemption and reconciliation in the Bible. He emphasizes that believers are redeemed by the precious blood of Christ, securing eternal redemption through God's grace. While redemption deals with judicial rights, reconciliation addresses the desires of the heart, showing God's deep love and desire for communion with His people. Both redemption and reconciliation are based on Christ's completed work at the cross, bringing believers into intimacy and oneness with God.
I Was That Soldier Who Murdered You!
By Thomas Brooks0Sin and RedemptionThe Sacrifice of ChristISA 53:5MAT 26:28JHN 3:16ROM 5:8EPH 1:7COL 1:14HEB 9:221PE 2:241JN 1:7REV 1:5Thomas Brooks emphasizes the profound truth that our sins were the direct cause of Christ's suffering and death. He poignantly reflects on the personal responsibility each believer bears, stating, 'I was that soldier who murdered You!' and highlights the paradox of how Christ's wounds bring us healing. Brooks urges Christians to approach a humble and broken Christ with a contrite heart, recognizing the gravity of sin and the necessity of Christ's sacrificial blood for redemption. He illustrates the depth of sin's wickedness, asserting that only the purest blood of Christ can atone for it, underscoring the immense cost of our salvation.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
In whom we have redemption - Who has paid down the redemption price, even his own blood, that our sins might be cancelled, and we made fit to be partakers of the inheritance among the saints in light. The clause, δια του αἱματος αυτου, Through his blood, is omitted by ABCDEFG, and by most others of weight and importance; by the Syriac, Arabic of Erpen, Coptic, Ethiopic, Sahidic, some copies of the Vulgate and by the Itala; and by most of the Greek fathers. Griesbach has left it out of the text. It is likely that the reading here is not genuine; yet that we have redemption any other way than through the sacrifice of Christ, the Scriptures declare not. The same phrase is used Eph 1:7, where there is no various reading in any of the MSS., versions, or fathers. The forgiveness of sins - Αφεσιν των ἁμαρτιων· The taking away of sins; all the power, guilt, and infection of sin. All sin of every kind, with all its influence and consequences.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
(Eph 1:7.) redemption--rather as Greek, "our redemption." through his blood--omitted in the oldest manuscripts; probably inserted from Eph 1:7. sins--Translate as Greek, "our sins." The more general term: for which Eph 1:7, Greek, has, "our transgressions," the more special term.
John Gill Bible Commentary
In whom we have redemption,.... Which is an excellent and wonderful blessing of grace saints have in and by Christ; and lies in a deliverance from sin, all sin, original and actual, under which they are held captive, in a state of nature, and by which they are made subject to the punishment of death; but through the sacrifice of Christ it is taken, and put away, finished, and made an end of; and they are freed from the damning power of it, or any obligation to punishment for it; and in consequence of this are delivered from the enslaving governing power of it by his grace and Spirit, and will hereafter be entirely rid of the very being of it: it consists also of a deliverance from the law, the curse and bondage of it, under which they are held on account of sin, the transgression of it; but being delivered from sin, they are also from the law, its accusations, charges, menaces, curses, and condemnation; as likewise out of the hands of Satan, by whom they are led captive; for through the ransom price paid by Christ they are ransomed out of the hands of him that was stronger than they, the prey is taken from the mighty, and the lawful captive delivered by him that has led captivity captive: in short, this redemption is a deliverance out of the hands of all their enemies, and from all evils and misery, the effects of sin, from death, and hell, and wrath to come. The author of it is Christ, the Son of God, the Son of his love, his dear Son: he was called to this work in the council of peace, in which the affair of redemption was consulted; and he agreed to undertake it in the covenant of grace, of which this is a principal article; and being in his constitution, as Mediator, every way fit and proper for it: as man, the right of redemption belonged to him, being the near kinsman of his people, and, as God, he was mighty and able to perform it; as man he had something to offer, and, as God, could make that sacrifice valuable and effectual to all saving purposes; as man, he had compassion on human nature, and, as God, was concerned for things pertaining to his honour and glory. And thus being every way qualified, he was sent, and came on this errand, and has obtained a redemption, which is precious, plenteous, complete and eternal: it is now with him, and "in him"; and he is made this, and everything else to his people, that they want. The subjects of this blessing are, not angels, but men; and not all men, but some that are redeemed from among men, out of every kindred, tongue, people, and nation; who are called by the name of Jacob, the people of Christ, a peculiar people, and the church of God; and evidentially are such, who have faith in Christ, love to the saints, and good hope of eternal life; who know the grace of God in truth, are made meet to be partakers of the eternal inheritance, being delivered from the power of darkness, and translated into the kingdom of Christ, and are designed by the we in this text: the means by which this blessing is procured, it through his blood. This phrase is left out indeed in the Syriac and Ethiopic versions, and in the Complutensian edition, and in some copies; but rightly stands here, as it does in Eph 1:7, where there is another clause added, which is here omitted, at the end of the verse, "according to the riches of his grace". This is the blood of Christ, his own blood, and not the blood of bulls and goats, and the same with that of the persons he redeems, but untainted with sin; the blood of Christ, as of a lamb without spot and blemish, of original or actual sin, otherwise it would not have been a sufficient redemption price for his people; nor even then, were it not as it was the blood of the Son of God, of one that was God as well as man, whereby it came to have a proper value and efficacy in it to obtain this blessing: Christ's shedding his blood freely on this account is a proof of his great love to his redeemed ones; the efficacy that was in it to answer this purpose shows the dignity and greatness of his person; and it not being to be effected without it, demonstrates the strictness of divine justice, and that the redemption of men is brought about in a way entirely consistent with the righteousness and holiness of God. A particular branch of this blessing follows, and which serves, in some sense, to illustrate and explain it, even the forgiveness of sins; of all sin, original and actual; of heart, lip, and life, secret and open, past, present, and to come; which lies in a non-imputation of sin, a remembrance of it no more, a removing of it entirely out of the way, a covering and blotting it out of sight, so as to be no more visible and legible: this is in Christ, where all spiritual blessings are; nor is it to be had or expected from an absolute God, but from God in Christ, and through him, through his propitiatory sacrifice; for as redemption, so forgiveness of sin is through his blood, which was shed for it; so that it proceeds upon the foot of satisfaction made to the justice of God by a price paid, and is an act of justice as well as grace, and belongs to the same persons as redemption does; hence those that are redeemed are represented as without fault before the throne; and indeed, the reason why their iniquities are blotted out, and will be remembered no more against them, is, because they are redeemed.