Christ, Our Rescuer
13 He has rescued us from the domain of darkness and transferred us into the kingdom of the Son he loves. 14 In him we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.
Colossians 1:13-14 (CSB)
We inhabit a fallen world characterized by darkness, pain, and sin. This darkness keeps us in a constant state of separation, and we are powerless to turn on the light ourselves. The apostle Paul told the Colossians that Christ is the sole Rescuer who overcomes this darkness and switches the light on, enabling us to live in the light.
Rescued from Darkness. In Christ, we are saved from the realm of darkness. Darkness seeks to control us when we are lost and separated from God. It causes spiritual blindness that prevents us from approaching the Lord and stops us from overcoming darkness through our own goodness or efforts. Christ came to defeat the power of darkness. He rescues us by paying the penalty of death imposed by darkness and defeating it through His resurrection. This victory shines as light that destroys darkness. Christ did not keep this victory to Himself but offers it to everyone who believes in Him, providing the light to overcome darkness for all who have faith in Him.
Transferred to God’s Kingdom. In Christ, believers are brought into God’s Kingdom. Living apart from Christ leaves us under darkness's control. Through faith in Christ, we don't just overcome darkness; we are transferred into God's Kingdom. This transfer isn't due to our efforts but is made possible by our trust in Christ. We don't switch from darkness to light through a simple act like entering a transfer portal; rather, Christ moves us from darkness into a new realm of light.
Redemption and Forgiveness. In Christ, we find redemption and forgiveness. As the Rescuer, Christ saves us from darkness and the death we deserve. This salvation includes the reality of being redeemed and forgiven. Through redemption, our debt of death is paid, we are justified before the Lord, and our sins are wiped away. Forgiveness for our sins is granted to us—not because we deserve it, but through Christ's grace. Only Christ, as Rescuer, offers true redemption and forgiveness.
QUESTIONS
How would you explain the gospel in terms of the work of Christ as rescuing us from the domain of darkness and moving us into the light?
Why must we remember the exclusiveness of Christ when we consider the transfer from darkness to light?
