What is the goal of the plan of redemption? 

The Goal of the Plan of Redemption

The primary goal of the Plan of Redemption is the complete restoration of humanity. According to the Bible, Adam was created “in the image of God” (Genesis 1:27). However, sin entered the world through disobedience, leading to the corruption of this divine image. The Son of God, Jesus Christ, came to restore what was lost, allowing believers to expect the restoration of the divine image in their lives as stated in 2 Corinthians 3:18 and Hebrews 3:14. This restoration is not merely a future hope but a present reality that believers can experience as they grow in their faith.

This possibility of restoration should always be at the forefront of a Christian’s mind, motivating them to strive for perfect Christ-likeness. The extent to which one reaches the goal of the Plan of Redemption depends on their acceptance and utilization of the powers that Christ has made available. The transformative journey begins at the new birth and continues until the second coming of Christ, as highlighted in 1 John 3:2.

Understanding the Nature of Redemption

The Plan of Redemption is not just about salvation from sin; it is about salvation from the very nature of sin itself. Believers are not saved in their sin but from it. They are granted divine strength to turn away from sin, escape its bondage, and live free from its corrupting influence, as stated in Matthew 1:21. God’s purpose in bestowing promised blessings upon us-so that we may share in His divine nature-serves as a compelling reason for believers to pursue righteousness and submit to His transformative work, as emphasized in Philippians 4:13.

Understanding this nature of redemption is crucial for believers. It highlights the profound change that occurs when one accepts Christ. This change is not superficial; it penetrates the very core of a person’s being, reshaping desires and motivations. The Apostle Paul emphasizes this transformation in 2 Corinthians 5:17, stating that anyone in Christ is a new creation. This new identity is foundational to the believer’s journey in the Plan of Redemption.

The Christian Virtues

In pursuing the Plan of Redemption, believers are called to actively seek godly virtues that reflect the character of Christ. The Apostle Peter outlines these virtues in his epistle: “But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness, to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love. For if these things are yours and abound, you will be neither barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. For he who lacks these things is shortsighted, even to blindness, and has forgotten that he was cleansed from his old sins” (1 Peter 1:5-9).

Agapē, or selfless love, is the capstone of all the virtues listed by Peter (1 Corinthians 13:13). It is the principle that must govern all our actions (1 Corinthians 16:14). All virtues can be unified in agapē, and without it, they hold little value (1 Corinthians 13:1-3). This love is characterized by a willingness to sacrifice oneself for the good of others, mirroring the love that God has for Christ and for humanity. This is the love that God desires for us to extend to one another.

The Application of Virtues in Daily Life

These virtues find their true meaning only in relation to a full knowledge of Jesus Christ. If they are not fulfilled in Him, they will fail to produce the fruits of the Spirit. It is impossible for someone who embodies the virtues detailed in 1 Corinthians 13:5-7 to be an idle member of the church. Their faith, brotherly kindness, and love will naturally lead them to serve others and advance God’s kingdom.

Consequently, believers are encouraged to “work out” their “own salvation with fear and trembling” (Philippians 2:12). This means actively engaging in the process of salvation that God has already planned and made possible. The Apostle Paul does not imply that those who follow this counsel will never sin, but rather that they will not fall away from God’s calling. While believers may stumble, they can achieve victory over sin by adhering to the principles outlined in 1 John 3:6-9. Ultimately, God will fulfill the Plan of Redemption by granting eternal life in His glorious kingdom, as promised in 1 Corinthians 2:9-10.

The Role of Faith and Works

In the context of the Plan of Redemption, faith and works are intricately linked. Faith is the foundation upon which the believer’s relationship with God is built. It is through faith that one accepts the grace of God and the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. However, true faith naturally produces good works. As James 2:17 states, “Faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.” This means that while salvation is a gift, the evidence of that salvation is seen in the believer’s actions.

Believers are called to demonstrate their faith through acts of love and service. This not only fulfills the commandments of Christ but also serves as a testimony to the world of the transformative power of the Gospel. The Apostle Paul encourages believers in Ephesians 2:10 that they are created in Christ for good works, which God prepared beforehand. This understanding helps believers recognize their role in the Plan of Redemption as active participants in God’s work.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Plan of Redemption

What Is the Significance of the Plan of Redemption?

The significance of the Plan of Redemption lies in its promise of restoration and transformation. It offers hope to humanity by providing a pathway back to a relationship with God, which was severed by sin. Through Christ’s sacrifice, believers can experience forgiveness and renewal.

How Can One Participate in the Plan of Redemption?

Participation in the Plan of Redemption begins with faith in Jesus Christ. Accepting Him as Lord and Savior opens the door to a transformed life. Believers are called to pursue righteousness, engage in prayer, and cultivate a relationship with God through His Word.

What Role Do Good Works Play in Redemption?

Good works are a natural outflow of a believer’s faith and transformation. While they do not earn salvation, they are evidence of a changed heart and a commitment to living according to God’s will. As believers grow in their faith, their actions should reflect the virtues of Christ.

Conclusion

In summary, the goal of the Plan of Redemption is the full restoration of humanity to the image of God. This transformative journey involves accepting Christ’s power, pursuing godly virtues, and actively participating in the work of the kingdom. As believers, we are called to embody the love and character of Christ, ensuring that we live out our faith in a way that reflects His glory. The promise of eternal life in God’s kingdom serves as the ultimate fulfillment of this divine plan.