Colossians 1:13-14 by Bob DeWaay Gospel of Grace Fellowship August 17, 2014

 There is an allusion here to Exodus 6:6 LXX  We have an inheritance in the light (Col. 1:12)  We pray for God’s rescue from the evil one (Matt. 6:13)  Rescue is not just from bondage but to God (Ex. 19:4)  The “domain of darkness” is the whole world in its rebellion against God (1John 5:19) Colossians 1:13 (NASB) For He rescued us from the domain of darkness,

 We were in darkness and are now in the light of Christ  The “Son” was promised a kingdom (Luke 1:32, 33; 2Sam. 7:12-16)  This transfer happens at conversion  All were in the kingdom of darkness regardless of their apparent status in the world Colossians 1:13b (NASB)... and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son,

 It was our sin that held us in bondage to Satan’s darkness  Redemption implies liberation from imprisonment and bondage  Redemption means release from slavery Colossians 1:14a (NASB) in whom we have redemption,

 The “release” from sin is an important Biblical promise  Sin is missing the mark of God’s holy standard  Sin is “lawlessness” (1John 3:4) Colossians 1:14b (NASB)... the forgiveness of sins.

 God is on a rescue mission  Deliverance is transfer from one kingdom to another  Redemption involves liberation from imprisonment and bondage  Jesus promised release to the captive

1Thessalonians 1:9b, 10 (NASB) how you turned to God from idols to serve a living and true God, and to wait for His Son from heaven, whom He raised from the dead, that is Jesus, who rescues us from the wrath to come.  The gospel includes the idea of rescue from God’s wrath  Repentance is to turn “to... from”  Rescued from wrath and brought to God

Acts 26:18 (NASB) to open their eyes so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the dominion of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who have been sanctified by faith in Me.

Hebrews 2:14, 15 (NASB) Therefore, since the children share in flesh and blood, He Himself likewise also partook of the same, that through death He might render powerless him who had the power of death, that is, the devil, and might free those who through fear of death were subject to slavery all their lives.

Luke 4:18 (NASB) The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, Because He anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor. He has sent Me to proclaim release to the captives, And recovery of sight to the blind, To set free those who are oppressed,