kinsman redeemer
Today, we will talk about kinsman redeemer. Many Christians do not know what this means. It’s a concept that is rooted in ancient Hebrew tradition and carries significant meaning throughout the Bible. The idea of a kinsman redeemer goes beyond just a family relationship; it’s about protection, deliverance, and restoration. As we embark on this journey together, let’s keep our hearts open and be encouraged by God’s Word. We’ll explore its meanings, both in the original Hebrew and Greek, and how this term is illustrated in the Scriptures. It’s an opportunity for us to reflect on redemption in our own lives as we think about how Jesus embodies our ultimate kinsman redeemer.
Understanding the Kinsman Redeemer
The concept of a kinsman redeemer, known as “goel” in Hebrew (גֹּאֵל), refers to a close relative who is obligated to rescue or redeem a family member in distress. This obligation encompassed several specific duties, such as redeeming a relative sold into slavery (Leviticus 25:48-49), marrying a widow to preserve the family line (Deuteronomy 25:5-10), and avenging the death of a family member (Numbers 35:19). The role was woven into the fabric of Jewish law and customs, emphasizing familial loyalty and communal responsibility.
The term also carries a sense of “redemption” or “rescue,” highlighting the authority and duty that a kinsman redeemer had over their family. It underscores themes of love, loyalty, and sacrifice. In Greek, the equivalent term often used is “apolutrosis,” which means liberation or release, amplifying the meaning of being redeemed from bondage or debt.
Historically, the role of a kinsman redeemer came into stark focus through the story of Ruth and Boaz. In this narrative, we see Ruth, a widow, in desperate need of protection and provision after the loss of her husband. Boaz, a relative of her deceased husband, fulfills the role of kinsman redeemer by stepping in to ensure Ruth’s safety and providing for her needs. This beautiful story illustrates how the Old Testament principle of a kinsman redeemer can serve as a foreshadowing of Christ’s ultimate sacrifice for us. Just as Boaz redeemed Ruth, so too does Jesus redeem us all.
Throughout both the Old and New Testaments, we find multiple references to redemption. Isaiah 54:5 talks about the Lord being our redeemer, emphasizing that we are not just saved from our sins but also brought into a loving relationship with God. In the New Testament, passages like Galatians 4:4-5 reveal that God sent His Son to redeem those under the law, emphasizing the continuity of this theme throughout the entirety of Scripture.
Roles and Responsibilities of a Kinsman Redeemer
Understanding the specific functions of a kinsman redeemer can help clarify what it means to be “redeemed” in our walk with Christ. The responsibilities typically included redeeming family members from slavery, marrying widows, and avenging wrongs within the family. Each of these obligations represents a different aspect of God’s love and commitment to us.
First, let’s look at redeeming those sold into slavery. In ancient Israel, if someone fell into financial trouble, they might sell themselves as a servant to repay their debts. In that scenario, it was the duty of the kinsman redeemer to step in and buy back their relative’s freedom. This reminds us of our own spiritual bondage due to sin and how Christ came to liberate us. In John 8:36, Jesus says, “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” Here, we see God’s commitment to restoring us, just as a kinsman redeemer would for their family.
Next, we have the duty to marry a widow, also known as “levirate marriage.” This practice was intended to ensure the continuance of the deceased husband’s family line and provide for the widow’s security. In the story of Ruth, Boaz marries Ruth to fulfill this obligation, showcasing love and loyalty. This mirrors Christ’s relationship with the Church; He marries us spiritually, loving us not for our imperfections but for our potential. Ephesians 5:25-27 captures this beautifully, showing how Christ loved the Church and sacrificed Himself for her, sanctifying her as His bride.
Finally, the kinsman redeemer also had the role of avenging wrongs. If a family member was murdered or harmed, the redeemer would seek justice. This sense of justice is elaborated in Numbers 35:19, where a family member handles the avenging of the death. Jesus fulfills this obligation, not only by being our protector against enemies (John 10:11-15) but also by ultimately defeating sin and death through His resurrection. In Romans 12:19, we are reminded that vengeance belongs to God, emphasizing His authority in providing justice for us.
Theological Implications of Kinsman Redeemer
The theological implications of the kinsman redeemer concept extend far beyond its historical and cultural context. The role embodies God’s character as a loving Father, who cares deeply for His children. In sending Jesus to be our kinsman redeemer, God demonstrated a profound commitment not only to redeem but to restore and nurture.
In the Old Testament, God established laws regarding the kinsman redeemer to ensure that families were cared for and dignity was maintained. For example, Leviticus 25:25 mandates that if a man becomes impoverished, his nearest relative must redeem him. This shows God’s intent for family bonds to provide security and ensure that no one would fall completely from grace. In another example, Deuteronomy 19:6 speaks to the cities of refuge, which served as havens for those who accidentally caused harm until their cases could be tried. These principles affirm that God’s laws are rooted in love and protection for the vulnerable.
The kinsman redeemer also serves as a typology of Christ in the New Testament. In Hebrews 2:10-17, we discover that Jesus identifies with humanity, becoming our brother so that He could redeem us. He became fully human to save humans—what a beautiful demonstration of love! This relationship not only fulfills the role of the redeemer but also allows us to approach God with confidence, as we are now co-heirs with Christ (Romans 8:17). Just like the kinsman redeemer fulfilled various obligations, Christ fulfills all our needs, providing redemption for our soul, healing for our wounds, and an eternal home.
Kinsman Redeemer in the New Testament
The New Testament brings the concept of the kinsman redeemer to its ultimate conclusion through Jesus Christ. Through every breakthrough of His ministry, we find echoes of the role that kinsman redeemers played. Jesus’ parables, teachings, and actions illustrate His deep commitment to redeeming humanity. For instance, the Parable of the Lost Sheep in Luke 15:3-7 highlights God’s love for each individual and His willingness to go to great lengths for redemption. Just as a shepherd would seek out a lost sheep, Jesus actively seeks and saves the lost.
The sentiment of liberation echoes through many New Testament writings. In 1 Peter 1:18-19, it states that we were redeemed “not with perishable things such as silver or gold, but with the precious blood of Christ.” This emphasizes that our redemption came at a great cost—Christ’s life. It reflects the depth of God’s commitment to us and the significant role He plays as our kinsman redeemer.
In Galatians 3:13, we see that “Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us,” which further solidifies the connection between Christ and the ancient responsibilities of a kinsman redeemer. The law, which seemed like a burden, was transformed through Christ, who upholds the law while also being our sacrificial lamb. This approach emphasizes mercy over judgment, further illuminated through Jesus’ interaction with those who were marginalized or viewed as sinners.
Finally, in Revelation 5:9, we are reminded that Jesus redeemed people “for God from every tribe and language and people and nation.” The beauty of this verse highlights how the work of the kinsman redeemer has expanded beyond just one family or nation—it encompasses the entirety of humanity. Our redemption through Christ is a universal gift offered to all, celebrating diversity in unity. This role highlights God’s relentless pursuit of each one of us, showing that He desires to redeem and reconcile us to Himself.
Final Thoughts
In our journey through understanding the kinsman redeemer, I hope we’ve discovered the layers of meaning this concept holds within Scripture. From its origin in Hebrew law to its beautiful fulfillment in Jesus, the themes of love, family loyalty, and protection resonate deeply in our lives today. Through the story of Ruth and Boaz, we see a poignant example of how this role played out, emphasizing God’s heart for restoration.
As we reflect on our own lives, it’s evident that we all need redeeming in one way or another. Every one of us has experienced struggles, burdens, and crises, but through Christ, we have an enduring promise of resurrection and new beginnings. We are reminded that we have a Savior who identifies with us and offers the love and redemption we so desperately need.
Let’s carry the essence of this truth with us: Jesus is our kinsman redeemer. He has lovingly paid the price for our redemption and continues to care for us daily. In moments of doubt or struggle, let us remember that we are not alone. Our lives can reflect the grace, mercy, and love that connect us to our Redeemer and inspire those around us. I invite us all to embrace this beautiful relationship and live as redeemed individuals, unashamed and grateful for our place in His family.
Further Reading
30 Bible Verses About Israel (With Explanation)
4 Ways to Encounter Grace and Truth: A Study on John, Chapter 4
Bible Commentary, Blog
30 Important bible verses about selflessness (With Explanation)