THE DAY OF REDEMPTION

THE DAY OF REDEMPTION

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Ephesians 4:30

Key Verse: “And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.” — Ephesians 4:30 (KJV)

Supporting Texts: Romans 8:18-23; Ephesians 1:7, 13-14; Romans 13:11-12; 1 Corinthians 15:51-55; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18; Titus 2:11-14; Matthew 24:42-44.

Description: The day of redemption is the glorious day when God will bring His saving work to completion, delivering His people from the full effects of sin and bringing them into everlasting glory with Christ.

INTRODUCTION

The Christian faith is founded on the redemptive work of Jesus Christ. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus delivered believers from the penalty of sin, reconciled them to God, and gave them the promise of eternal life. However, although we have received salvation through faith in Christ, we still await the complete manifestation of our redemption. This glorious expectation is expressed in Ephesians 4:30, which speaks of the day of redemption.

The Holy Spirit is God's seal upon believers and the guarantee of their future inheritance. Just as a seal identifies ownership, the presence of the Holy Spirit confirms that we belong to God. Nevertheless, Paul connects this promise with a serious warning: we must not grieve the Holy Spirit. In the surrounding verses, he instructs believers to put away bitterness, anger, evil speaking, and malice. Our expectation of redemption must therefore influence our conduct, relationships, and spiritual commitment.

The day of redemption gives believers hope amid suffering, temptation, persecution, and uncertainty. It reminds us that the present world is not our final destination and that death will not have the last word over those who belong to Christ. Therefore, we must live in holiness, walk in the Spirit, remain faithful in service, and prepare for the return of our Lord Jesus Christ. The important question is not merely whether the day of redemption will come, but whether we are ready for it.

1. THE DAY OF REDEMPTION IS THE COMPLETION OF GOD'S SAVING PURPOSE

Redemption is God's act of delivering humanity from the bondage of sin through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. When we receive Christ, we are forgiven, reconciled to God, and brought into His family. Yet we continue to live in mortal bodies in a world affected by sin, suffering, and death.

The day of redemption points to the future completion of God's saving purpose, when believers will experience the fullness of their inheritance in Christ. Our salvation is already real, but its final manifestation is still ahead. This assurance gives us confidence that God will complete what He has promised.

a) Redemption Through the Blood of Jesus Christ (Ephesians 1:7)

“In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace.” — Ephesians 1:7 (KJV)

The foundation of our redemption is the blood of Jesus Christ. Humanity could not purchase salvation through good works, religious ceremonies, or personal righteousness. Sin separated us from God, and only the sacrifice of Jesus could provide the way of reconciliation.

Through His death on the cross, Jesus paid the price for our sins and opened the way for us to receive forgiveness through faith. The day of redemption is possible because Christ has already accomplished the decisive work of salvation.

Practical application: Place your confidence in Jesus Christ alone. Live in gratitude for His sacrifice, reject sin, and allow His grace to transform your character.

b) The Redemption of Our Bodies (Romans 8:23)

“And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body.” — Romans 8:23 (KJV)

Although believers have received the Holy Spirit, they still experience physical weakness, ageing, sickness, and mortality. These experiences remind us that the full benefits of redemption have not yet been manifested.

At Christ's return, God's people will experience the fulfilment of His promise concerning the redemption of their bodies. Our hope is not simply that earthly circumstances will improve, but that God will ultimately bring His saving purpose to completion.

Practical application: Honour God with your body, trust Him during seasons of weakness, and remember that your present condition does not determine your eternal future.

c) The Redemption of God's Purchased Possession (Ephesians 1:13-14)

“In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise, Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory.” — Ephesians 1:13–14 (KJV)

The Holy Spirit is God's seal upon those who believe in Christ. His presence assures us that we belong to God and points us towards the inheritance He has promised.

The word earnest refers to a guarantee or first instalment. The Holy Spirit is God's pledge that His promises will be fulfilled. We therefore have a reason to remain confident, even when our present circumstances are difficult.

Practical application: Remember that you belong to God. Let your private life, speech, relationships, and service reflect His ownership of your life.

d) The Final Victory Over Death (1 Corinthians 15:54-55)

“So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?” — 1 Corinthians 15:54–55 (KJV)

Death brings sorrow and reminds humanity of the consequences of sin. However, the resurrection of Jesus Christ assures believers that death will not have the final victory over those who belong to Him.

At the resurrection, the mortal condition of God's people will give way to the immortal life He has promised. This hope does not prevent grief, but it assures us that grief is not the end of the story.

Practical application: Live with eternity in view. Do not allow the fear of death to control you; remain faithful to Christ, who has conquered death.

Biblical Example: Job's Hope in His Redeemer (Job 19:25-27)

Despite losing his possessions, children, and health, Job declared his confidence in a living Redeemer. His faith teaches us to look beyond present suffering and trust God's ultimate purpose. Like Job, we can remain hopeful because our Redeemer lives.

2. THE HOLY SPIRIT SEALS BELIEVERS UNTO THE DAY OF REDEMPTION

Ephesians 4:30 connects our future redemption with the present ministry of the Holy Spirit. The Spirit convicts, teaches, strengthens, guides, and empowers believers to live in a way that pleases God.

Being sealed unto the day of redemption gives us assurance, but it also places responsibility upon us. We must not grieve the Spirit through persistent disobedience. Instead, we must yield to His leading and allow Him to produce Christlike character in us.

a) The Holy Spirit Is the Seal of Divine Ownership (Ephesians 4:30)

“And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.” — Ephesians 4:30 (KJV)

A seal identifies ownership and authenticates what it marks. Paul uses this picture to show that believers belong to God through the work of the Holy Spirit.

However, Paul also commands us not to grieve the Spirit. The Holy Spirit is not an impersonal force; He is divine and works personally in the lives of believers. When we persist in conduct contrary to God's will, we grieve Him.

Practical application: Repent quickly when the Spirit convicts you. Refuse secret sin, dishonesty, hatred, and deliberate disobedience.

b) The Holy Spirit Is the Guarantee of Our Inheritance (2 Corinthians 1:21-22)

“Now he which stablisheth us with you in Christ, and hath anointed us, is God; Who hath also sealed us, and given the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts.” — 2 Corinthians 1:21–22 (KJV)

God establishes believers in Christ and gives His Spirit as a guarantee of the inheritance to come. Our confidence rests in His faithfulness, not in our human strength.

This assurance does not encourage carelessness. Rather, it strengthens us to continue in faith, even when we face trials, delays, or discouragement.

Practical application: Trust God's promises during difficult seasons. Continue praying, obeying His Word, and growing in faith.

c) The Holy Spirit Empowers Us to Live Holy Lives (Galatians 5:16)

“This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.” — Galatians 5:16 (KJV)

The Holy Spirit empowers believers to overcome sinful desires and live according to God's will. Walking in the Spirit means depending on Him daily and submitting our choices to the truth of Scripture.

Spiritual readiness requires more than religious activity. We must allow the Spirit to transform our attitudes, desires, speech, and conduct.

Practical application: Begin each day in prayer, surrender your plans to God, and depend on the Spirit when facing temptation.

d) The Holy Spirit Guides Us into Truth (John 14:26)

“But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.” — John 14:26 (KJV)

Jesus promised that the Holy Spirit would teach His disciples and remind them of His words. The Spirit helps believers understand and apply God's truth.

In a world filled with false teachings and spiritual confusion, we must remain grounded in Scripture. The Holy Spirit will never lead us to contradict the Word of God.

Practical application: Study the Bible, pray for understanding, and test every teaching against Scripture.

Biblical Example: Stephen, Full of the Holy Spirit (Acts 6:8-15; 7:54-60)

Stephen served God with wisdom and spiritual power. Even when he faced persecution and death, he remained faithful to Christ. His example teaches us that the Holy Spirit strengthens believers to stand firm, even in difficult circumstances.

3. THE DAY OF REDEMPTION REQUIRES HOLINESS AND SPIRITUAL READINESS

The expectation of Christ's return must influence our daily conduct. Biblical teaching about the end times is not merely intended to satisfy curiosity; it calls believers to holiness, vigilance, love, and obedience.

In Ephesians 4:30-32, Paul connects the promise of redemption with the need to put away bitterness, anger, evil speaking, and malice. Readiness for Christ's return must therefore be evident in our character and relationships.

a) Put Away Every Form of Sin (Colossians 3:5-8)

“Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry.” — Colossians 3:5 (KJV)

Paul commands believers to put sinful practices to death. Sin is not harmless; it damages our fellowship with God and harms our relationships with others.

Those awaiting the day of redemption must reject sexual immorality, covetousness, deceit, hatred, and every practice that contradicts God's Word.

Practical application: Identify the sinful habits you have tolerated. Seek God's grace, remove sources of temptation, and pursue accountability where necessary.

b) Maintain a Pure Heart and Clean Hands (Psalm 24:3-4)

“Who shall ascend into the hill of the LORD? or who shall stand in his holy place? He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart; who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully.” — Psalm 24:3–4 (KJV)

God desires inward purity as well as outward righteousness. Clean hands represent righteous conduct, while a pure heart reflects sincerity and integrity before God.

Religious appearances cannot replace a genuine relationship with the Lord. He sees our motives and knows what we harbour in secret.

Practical application: Ensure that your private life agrees with your public testimony. Be honest, sincere, and willing to repent when corrected by God's Word.

c) Forgive Others and Reject Bitterness (Ephesians 4:31-32)

“Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.” — Ephesians 4:31–32 (KJV)

Paul directly connects our treatment of others with the command not to grieve the Holy Spirit. Bitterness, hatred, and unforgiveness are serious obstacles to healthy Christian fellowship.

Forgiveness does not mean pretending that wrongdoing never happened or permitting continued abuse. It means surrendering vengeance to God and refusing to allow hatred to rule our hearts.

Practical application: Ask God for grace to forgive those who have hurt you. Seek reconciliation where possible and maintain wise boundaries where necessary.

d) Live in Readiness for Christ's Appearing (Titus 2:11-13)

“For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ.” — Titus 2:11-13 (KJV)

God's grace not only saves us but also teaches us how to live. We are called to reject ungodliness, practise self-control, and pursue righteousness while awaiting Christ's appearing.

The expectation of the Lord's return should make us more faithful in our responsibilities and more committed to pleasing God.

Practical application: Live each day as someone who expects to meet Christ. Serve faithfully in your family, workplace, church, and community.

Biblical Example: Enoch Walked with God (Genesis 5:21-24; Hebrews 11:5)

Enoch lived in a corrupt generation, yet Scripture records that he walked with God and pleased Him by faith. His life demonstrates that believers can remain devoted to God despite the moral condition of their generation.

Enoch challenges us to maintain a close relationship with God and live in readiness for eternity.

4. THE DAY OF REDEMPTION IS A DAY OF HOPE, DELIVERANCE, AND GLORY

The Christian hope is not based on the belief that life will always be easy. Believers may face persecution, disappointment, sickness, and grief. Nevertheless, the promise of redemption assures us that present suffering cannot cancel God's eternal purpose.

The day of redemption points to God's final victory over sin and death. This hope strengthens us to endure hardship and remain faithful until the fulfilment of His promises.

a) Present Suffering Cannot Compare with Future Glory (Romans 8:18)

“For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.” — Romans 8:18 (KJV)

Paul understood suffering, yet he remained confident that the glory awaiting believers was greater than their present afflictions.

This truth does not minimise pain; it reminds us that suffering is not the end of our story. God has promised a future in which His glory will be revealed in His people.

Practical application: When trials come, continue trusting God, praying, and obeying His Word. Do not abandon your faith because of a difficult season.

b) God Will Complete His Work in Us (Philippians 1:6)

“Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.” — Philippians 1:6 (KJV)

God begins His saving work in us and continues transforming us through His grace. Although we must cooperate with the Holy Spirit, our confidence rests in God's faithfulness.

We may still have areas in which we need spiritual growth, but we must not surrender to discouragement. God calls us to continue pursuing maturity and obedience.

Practical application: Learn from your mistakes, receive correction, and continue growing in Christ.

c) The Lord Will Raise the Dead in Christ (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17)

“For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.” — 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 (KJV)

Paul used this promise to comfort believers concerned about Christians who had died. Those who have died in Christ will not be forgotten; they will be raised according to God's promise.

The return of Jesus will bring the fulfilment of our hope of being with Him forever. This truth provides comfort in bereavement and encourages us to remain faithful.

Practical application: Comfort those who mourn with the promises of Scripture, and use your life to serve Christ faithfully.

d) Watch and Be Ready (Matthew 24:42-44)

“Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come.” — Matthew 24:42 (KJV)

Jesus commanded His followers to watch because no one knows the precise time of His return. This uncertainty should produce readiness rather than fear or speculation.

Spiritual watchfulness means maintaining prayer, resisting temptation, obeying Scripture, and faithfully fulfilling our responsibilities.

Practical application: Examine your spiritual life regularly. Keep your faith active and do not postpone obedience.

Biblical Example: The Wise and Foolish Virgins (Matthew 25:1-13)

Jesus described ten virgins waiting for the bridegroom. Five prepared adequately, while five were unprepared when he arrived. The parable teaches that readiness cannot be postponed until the last moment.

Every believer must maintain a genuine relationship with Christ rather than relying on another person's spirituality. We must be ready whenever the Lord comes.

5. THE DAY OF REDEMPTION CALLS US TO PERSEVERE IN FAITHFUL SERVICE

The promise of redemption does not call us to become passive. Instead, it should motivate us to serve God more diligently, use our opportunities wisely, and share the gospel with others.

Our labour for God is never wasted when it is done faithfully. The Lord sees every sacrifice, every prayer, and every act of service performed for His glory.

a) Be Steadfast in the Work of the Lord (1 Corinthians 15:58)

“Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.” — 1 Corinthians 15:58 (KJV)

Paul connects the promise of resurrection with the responsibility of faithful service. Because our future in Christ is secure, we have every reason to remain committed to His work.

People may overlook your service, but God sees your faithfulness. Do not allow criticism or delayed results to discourage you.

Practical application: Serve God wholeheartedly, whether through preaching, teaching, giving, prayer, or caring for others.

b) Redeem the Time (Ephesians 5:15-16)

“See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.” — Ephesians 5:1-16 (KJV)

To redeem the time means to use opportunities wisely. Our earthly lives are limited, and each day presents opportunities to grow, serve, and fulfil God's purpose.

The expectation of Christ's return should encourage disciplined living rather than wasted opportunities.

Practical application: Prioritise prayer, Bible study, family responsibilities, evangelism, and faithful service. Do not continually postpone what God has called you to do.

c) Continue in Prayer and Watchfulness (Colossians 4:2)

“Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving.” — Colossians 4:2 (KJV)

Prayer keeps us dependent on God and strengthens our fellowship with Him. Watchfulness helps us recognise temptation and remain alert to opportunities for service.

Thanksgiving reminds us of God's faithfulness even when circumstances are difficult.

Practical application: Maintain a consistent prayer life and pray for your family, church, leaders, and those who do not yet know Christ.

d) Preach the Gospel and Make Disciples (Matthew 28:19-20)

“Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.” — Matthew 28:19–20 (KJV)

Jesus commissioned His followers to make disciples of all nations. The expectation of His return should strengthen our commitment to evangelism and discipleship.

Every believer can witness for Christ through words, conduct, compassion, and faithful service. The Church must proclaim the gospel and help new believers grow in the faith.

Practical application: Share the gospel, pray for unbelievers, encourage new believers, and support the work of missions.

Biblical Example: Paul Finished His Race (2 Timothy 4:6-8)

Near the end of his life, Paul declared that he had fought a good fight, finished his course, and kept the faith. Despite persecution and hardship, he remained committed to the gospel.

His example teaches us that the Christian journey requires perseverance. Our goal is not merely to begin well but to finish faithfully, looking forward to the reward promised by the Lord.

CONCLUSION

The day of redemption is the glorious fulfilment of God's saving purpose through Jesus Christ. We have been redeemed through His blood, sealed by the Holy Spirit, and promised an eternal inheritance. Although we still experience suffering and live in a world affected by sin, we look forward to the day when Christ will bring the fullness of redemption to His people. This hope should strengthen our hearts, comfort us in affliction, and remind us that our present struggles are not the end of our story.

Therefore, examine your life and prepare sincerely for the coming of the Lord. Reject sin, forgive others, maintain a life of prayer, remain faithful in service, and proclaim the gospel. Do not allow worldly distractions or temporary suffering to weaken your commitment to Christ. Live every day in readiness, trusting the Holy Spirit to strengthen you until the day of redemption.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Father, thank You for redeeming me through the blood of Jesus, in Jesus name.

2. Lord, prepare me for the day of redemption, in Jesus name.

3. Holy Spirit, cleanse my heart from every sin, in Jesus name.

4. Father, empower me to walk in holiness, in Jesus name.

5. Lord, strengthen my faith in every trial, in Jesus name.

6. Father, deliver me from bitterness and unforgiveness, in Jesus name.

7. Holy Spirit, guide me into all truth, in Jesus name.

8. Lord, renew my passion for prayer and Your Word, in Jesus name.

9. Father, help me to remain faithful until the end, in Jesus name.

10. Lord Jesus, grant me grace to finish my race well, in Jesus name.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS

1. You shall remain faithful until the day of redemption.

2. You shall walk in holiness and please the Lord.

3. You shall overcome temptation by the power of the Holy Spirit.

4. You shall not be defeated by present trials.

5. You shall walk in forgiveness, peace, and love.

6. You shall fulfil your God-given assignment.

7. You shall grow in grace and spiritual maturity.

8. You shall be a faithful witness for Jesus Christ.

9. You shall finish your Christian race with faith.

10. You shall share in the everlasting glory of Christ.