Who gave Himself as a ransom for all men, the testimony given in its proper time.
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1Timothy 2:6
Television shows about kidnapping and ransom are fascinating to watch, but no one would ever want it to happen in real life. In a sense, all humanity has been kidnapped by the devil. On the road to Damascus, Jesus told Paul that He was sending him to Jews and Gentiles to “open their eyes, so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God” (Acts 26:18). God the Father loved people so much He paid the ransom—the precious blood of His Beloved Son.
Picture the TV episode where the exchange happens. The parents are there with their satchel of money and the bad guys are standing there with the son or daughter. The trade is made. The child runs to the parent. But what if they do not run but decide to stay with the kidnappers to be mistreated some more? Is that not similar to what unbelievers do? The ransom is paid. The devil is conquered. But now the one who was kidnapped must run to the Father, not run back and live for the one who has him bound.
Praise God for the loving Father He is, and thank Him for paying the ransom with the blood of Jesus. Now you can be subject to the Father and live (Hebrews 12:9).
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