Redeemer - The History

Genesis 48:16

According to BibleStudyTools.com, the Hebrew verb that is the root for “redeemer” and “kinsman redeemer,” ga’al, is found in more than 100 Old Testament verses. A faithful redeemer is someone who “delivers or rescues (Gen 48:16; Exod 6:6); redeems property (Lev 27:9–25) or person (Lev 25:47–55); avenges the murder of a relative as a guiltless executioner (Num 35:9–34); and receives restitution for wrong done to a relative who has since died (Num 5:8).” 

In Genesis 48:16, Jacob names God as his redeemer and calls for his blessing on Joseph’s sons. From the beginning, there has always been a strong family component to the idea of God as redeemer, with God as the Father and the rest of us as His children, requiring His blessing and aid to experience redemption.


Questions for further thought:
1. Write out in your own words exactly what it means to have God as your savior/redeemer.


2. In addition to salvation, in what ways has God specifically redeemed you?  


Challenge: In your prayers this week, take time to address God as your Redeemer, the one who lifts you up.