365 Ways to Know God by Elmer Towns May 22

365 Ways to Know God by Elmer Towns

(Devotional Readings on the Names of God)

May 22

JESUS: A RANSOM FOR MANY

Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister,

and to give his life a ransom for many.

MATTHEW 20:28, KJV

A ransom is the price paid to release someone who is captured or kidnapped. Satan tempted Eve to eat the fruit of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil; she gave it to Adam, and they both ate. In that act of disobedience, they were captured by Satan, both they and all their posterity. To release these captives, a price was paid. "You were not redeemed with corruptible things, ... but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb" (1 Peter 1:18-19). Jesus gave His life's blood to pay the ransom price; He was a Ransom for Many. Jesus is "the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world" (John 1:29). While His blood was the price for everyone in the world, it only applies to those who believe in Him and receive Him as Savior. It was a Ransom for Many, but it only applies co those who receive it.

Jesus, I love You because You first loved me. I will serve You

because You paid the ransom for me.

Jesus is the perfect example of a servant who ministers to others. He did not think of Himself, He thought of others. But He did more than think of us, He came and took the initiative. He gave His time, His strength and His life for our ransom.

Jesus, I will give my life for others because You have given Your

life for me. I will think of others, give my time for others and take

the initiative for others. Amen.

Reading: Matthew 20:20-34

Key Thought: Give your life for others, as Christ gave His life for you.