Is Redemption the Problem? Seeking answers for Renewal and Restoration? A Devotional from Isaiah 43.

Is Redemption the Problem
Pastor Calvin Cook
April 14, 2025

Key Verse: “You have burdened me with your sins.” (Isaiah 43:24)

Following up on the devotional from Friday in regard to redemption, I have experienced some conversations both in favor and disfavor on the thought of redemption. How it happens, when it happens, if it happens, and the hardest is redemption even recognized or taught in the modern concepts of theology.

I don’t want to further complicate an understanding of life in Christ but to encourage some self-evaluation of where we are in our relationship with Jesus and if we have moved past the altar of acceptance of forgiveness into the glorious new life that awaits.

I believe we are called whole heartily to acknowledge our sins through confession, being held accountable by the Holy Spirit (and a covenant prayer partner – hopefully we have one), then experiencing the act of redemption. With the simple explanation of redemption being, moving from the sin that is confining our spirit, preventing us from experiencing healing and wholeness and then being able to move on to renewal and restoration. The actions of God in our life is not to condemn us, but to change us and renew us.

So, is redemption the problem? Or is it that we’ve stopped short of embracing its full invitation? Redemption isn’t meant to confuse or condemn—it’s God’s loving way of drawing us closer, healing the broken places, and restoring what sin has tried to steal. As your brother in Christ, I gently urge you: don’t settle at the altar of forgiveness. Keep walking. Let the Holy Spirit guide you into the deeper waters of grace where redemption becomes real, personal, and life-changing. There is more—more freedom, more joy, more purpose. And it’s all found in Christ Jesus the Lord.