Why the Bible Was Written, Part Five (conclusion)

The overall theme of Scripture is redemption. This includes both salvation from sin and liberation from all the dominating powers-that-be. Those redeemed by faith in Christ are liberated from the spiritual oppression of Satan who holds people in slavery to the fear of death (Heb. 2:14-14). The redeemed are, in fact, liberated from all the principalities and powers who have been disarmed by Christ who triumphed over them by the cross (Col. 1:15).

The principalities and powers not only include spiritual beings (Eph. 6:12), but also the corrupt systems of this world which keep the weak oppressed and the strong in power. Imperial powers are among those who were (and are) destined for destruction in the Book of Revelation.

While the curse of bondage to pain, frustration, enmity, alienation, and death are evoked in the first three chapters of the Bible, the last three chapters affirm the reversal of the curse. A new heaven and a new earth replace the old (Rev. 21:1). God’s presence will be with his people (Rev. 21:3). The mourning, crying, and pain brought on by the curse will have passed away (Rev. 21:4). Everything will be made new (Rev. 21:5). There will no longer be any curse (Rev. 22:3). Access to the tree of life will be restored (Rev. 22:14).

While the ultimate reversal of the curse remains future, it has begun with Jesus’ death and resurrection. He has paid the price for sin, thereby reversing the curse of death. His kingdom will ultimately replace all the corrupt systems of this world. The in-breaking of Christ’s kingdom was demonstrated in his earthly ministry as he healed the sick, raised the dead, cast out demons, and taught on peace and justice.

Christ has promised a just reign in which captives will be liberated and prisoners released. His reign of justice continues now through his body—the church—as we work to free the oppressed from what binds them. We don’t achieve this by taking up the weapons of the world (2 Cor. 10:4), but by being dispensers of justice under Christ’s benevolent rule.

The kingdom comes as we work to bring healing to the sick, food to the hungry, peace to those at enmity, refuge to the orphans, sanctuary to the oppressed, and as we practice impartial treatment toward others regardless of race, sex, or social status. And of course, we continually proclaim liberation from the bondage of sin and death through the gospel of the kingdom.