The Meaning of Redemption--its Origins and Biblical Significance

What Does Redemption Really Mean?
Why It’s One of the Most Powerful Words in the Bible

The word redemption stirs something in us. Even in everyday life, it’s a term that pulls at the heart—used to describe comebacks, homecomings, and stories where things are finally set right. We cheer when our team redeems a season. It’s even sweeter when we experience it ourselves: when what was lost is recovered, what was broken is restored, and when justice or vindication prevails.

We ache for this kind of story because we were made for it.

This article explores the rich biblical meaning of redemption, sets it apart from similar concepts like restoration, justification, and vindication, and invites you to see it as the very heartbeat of the gospel and the primary motif in the Bible and your life.

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Redemption: A Story as Old as Time

The theme of redemption predates even Homer’s Odyssey, where Odysseus endures loss and suffering and, through his dedicated efforts, returns and restores his home and family. We’re drawn to the story not because of the strange adventures, but because of the satisfying resolution. Everything that went wrong is made right.

Redemption is what we long for at the end of every story.

In fact, the theme of redemption goes back to the very beginning. In the garden, Adam and Eve fall—and in the same moment, they are given a promise: one day, their offspring will crush the serpent and make things right. That promise of redemption reverberates throughout Scripture and culminates in the person of Jesus Christ.

Redemption is not a side topic in the Bible—it’s one of its richest and most vital themes. It shapes how we understand God’s love, His justice, and His promise that His will be done “on earth as it is in heaven.”

What the Word Redemption Really Means

Today, we use redemption in casual contexts—like redeeming a coupon or a promo code—but its historic and biblical usage goes far deeper. At its core, redemption means regaining or restoring something that was lost. It overlaps with concepts like rescue, recovery, deliverance, and atonement.

But in the biblical sense, redemption is God's act of freeing His people from bondage—whether to slavery, sin, or death—through a costly act of love. It’s not just doctrine. It’s the engine and economy of the gospel.

Grasping the biblical definition of redemption deepens your faith and equips you to enjoy and share the good news with clarity and conviction. If we are followers of Christ, we must understand what redemption really means—so we can point others to the ultimate Redeemer.

The Etymology of Redemption: A Word with Weight

The English word redemption traces back to the early 15th century as redemen—to buy back or ransom, often spiritually. It came from the Latin redimere (red- meaning "back" and emere meaning "to buy"). In Middle English, it even appeared as “againbuy.”

By the 15th century, redemption expanded to mean rescue, and by the 16th century, it included making amends and fulfilling promises. Over time, the word also came to mean paying off a debt or “saving” lost time (cf. Ephesians 5:16; Colossians 4:5).

But to truly appreciate its depth, we must look at its roots in biblical Hebrew and Greek.

Hebrew and Greek Words for Redemption: A Full-Color Picture

The Old Testament uses three key Hebrew words to describe redemption:

• Pada – Legal substitution or ransom. It implies a price paid to free someone or something (e.g., Exodus 13:13). Redemption here is costly—sacrifice is required.

• Gaal – Kinship redemption. This is the language of a family member who buys back a relative or their land (cf. Exodus 6:6, Ruth 3:13). God is not just a rescuer—He’s a close relative who claims us as His own.

• Kapar – To cover or atone. This term is deeply tied to sacrifice, where guilt is removed through substitution (e.g., Exodus 29:36).

The New Testament uses several variations on one Greek root:

• Lytron, Lytrōsis, or Apolytrōsis – These refer to the monetary price paid to buy back, to ransom, or to the experience of being liberated from an oppressive situation (e.g., Hebrews 9:12). Like pada, they imply a significant transaction.

Together, these words paint a complete picture of God’s redemptive work (Lytrōsis): He substitutes Himself for our penalty (pada), reclaims us as His own (gaal), and covers our guilt (kapar).

This is why He is called Israel’s “Redeemer”—especially in the book of Isaiah. While the Exodus was the first great model of redemption (involving the sacrifice of lambs to escape judgment and find deliverance), the prophets continued the theme when foretelling Israel’s deliverance from Babylon and, ultimately, the Messiah’s mission.

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Disambiguation:
How Redemption Differs from Similar Terms

Here’s how redemption stands apart from other powerful biblical and theological words:

Restoration

Restoration focuses on returning something to its former condition. It doesn’t necessarily involve a transaction and typically implies the result is “as good as new.” In contrast, redemption involves a transaction—often leading to something better than what was lost. For example, redeeming a coupon gets you more than a piece of paper; redeeming a life from slavery opens opportunities to elevate it beyond its former status. In legal contexts, restoration aligns with restitution, while redemption aligns with settling a debt (e.g., foreclosure or repossession).

In the Bible, Jesus redeems us not just back to Eden, but to something even greater—eternal fellowship with God.

Retribution

Retribution is about vengeance and punishment. Redemption, however, is about settlement through payment. Where retribution demands suffering, redemption provides satisfaction. Scripture replaces personal vengeance (e.g., eye for an eye) with forgiveness, reserving both vengeance and redemption for the Lord. However, forgiveness, rightly understood, is not the same as restored fellowship—it’s a release of the right to retaliate. Redemption through Christ involves the full payment of our penalty and the full restoration of fellowship with the Father.

Vindication

Vindication corrects a lie or clears someone of blame. In redemption, vindication is part of the reward for the price paid. We are no longer guilty because our debt is settled. Christ is not our vindicator because we were falsely accused—He vindicates us because He has fully satisfied the just penalty of our guilt.

Rescue

Rescue focuses on deliverance from harm. While redemption includes rescue, it adds the idea of cost—of a price paid. Jesus doesn’t just snatch us from danger—He pays the ultimate price to bring us to safety.

Justification and Absolution

Justification refers to the declaration of righteousness. Absolution refers to a declaration of forgiveness. Both are part of redemption, but only make full sense within it. Without the transactional context of Christ’s sacrifice, these terms lack the necessary standing to accomplish the task. (See Mark 2:7.)

Fulfilled Promise

Redemption is also an action that fulfills the Lord’s promises—such as the promise for the seed of Eve to crush the serpent and end the curse of sin. In secular terms, redeeming a promissory note fulfills a legal obligation. In Scripture, Christ’s redemptive work fulfills every divine promise made for our salvation and restoration.

Why Redemption Changes Everything

Understanding redemption isn't just a theological exercise—it changes how we see the world, ourselves, and others.

You may come across explanations of redemption that emphasize the high cost of what is given to redeem something else. While something of great value can indeed be offered in the act of redemption, the focus should be on the even greater value of what is being redeemed. After all, who would knowingly trade something more valuable for something less? The concept becomes truly humbling when we consider that God loves us so much that He did not spare His own Son, who suffered and died for us (John 3:16). The Church is the Lord’s prize, and the concept of redemption not only reveals the means by which we are saved—it more shockingly reveals how deeply He loves us (1 John 4:7–8).

When you know what Christ has done to redeem you, it reshapes your identity. You’re no longer just a sinner—you’re restored, reclaimed, beloved, a child of God. And that transforms how you treat others—with grace, humility, and compassion.

Redemption is the model for discipleship, ministry, and every relationship. It’s the satisfaction, rest, and encouragement we seek in stories—and in our own lives.

Want to Learn More?

The theme of the Father not sparing His Son—and the value of the prize Jesus claims through His sacrifice—is clear in His final words on the cross. You can explore the often-overlooked meaning of this passage in this post.

The final words of Jesus, misunderstood

“My God, My God—For What Reason Did You Forsake Me?”

As we begin to dig deeply into theology and exegesis, new horizons of understanding and application open up. One of the most powerful aspects of redemption is the expectation of what comes next—the future shaped by the freedom we now enjoy. This is the mission of Redemption Seminary:

Redemption Seminary helps adult Christians grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ (2 Pet. 3:18) through quality distance education, which enables learning within their ministry setting.

You can begin enjoying studies like these through Redemption courses that you can work through at your own pace. Some people use Redemption course lessons to structure their personal Bible study times.

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Apply Today
You’re welcome to register for a single course or a full program. You can change your plan at any time without penalties. Learning through the structure of a course (without stressful exams or papers) can enrich your personal and church life.

Support the Mission
If this article was helpful, consider supporting more like it with a donation. Redemption Seminary is committed to helping ministry leaders and volunteers grow in their calling. Join our community and help make more of this work possible by setting up a monthly gift.

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At Redemption Seminary, we believe the truth of redemption is worth exploring deeply. Our online seminary offers flexible course tracks for those pursuing a Master of Arts in Biblical Studies (MABS) or other theological paths. Through our Christ-centered curriculum, you’ll gain a richer understanding of redemption—and how it shapes your discipleship, theology, and ministry.

Come learn how to weave this powerful theme into your life this year—so that everything you touch carries the meaning, energy, and hope of redemption.

The Story Behind Greek Audio Recordings in Logos

Jason Stone’s INterview with John Schwandt

Logos Coach, Jason Stone, interviews John Schwandt, President of Redemption Seminary (https://redemption.edu), and delves into the fascinating world of ancient languages and modern theological education. Discover John's journey from a Bible and tech enthusiast to leading an innovative online seminary. Learn about the unique features of Logos Bible Software and how Redemption Seminary is redefining theological education. Don't miss this engaging discussion filled with personal stories and professional insights.

Topics Covered

• Introduction to John Schwandt and Redemption Seminary

• The evolution of Logos Bible Software

• The significance of pronunciation in ancient languages

• The innovative approach of Redemption Seminary

• The future of theological education.

Learn More

We want to hear from you!

Redemption Seminary Is Now Authorized to Enroll Students in All 50 States!

We have exciting news: Redemption Seminary is now officially approved to enroll students nationwide through our participation in the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA)!

This means that no matter where you live in the U.S.—including the District of Columbia—you can now apply to begin your seminary journey with Redemption. With our religious exemption in California, this milestone officially opens the door for students from every state to access our fully online, flexible, and affordable theological training.

What Is NC-SARA and Why Does It Matter?

NC-SARA is a national initiative that ensures high-quality, accessible, and legally compliant online education across state lines. Participation in NC-SARA is more than just a green light to offer courses nationwide—it’s a mark of trust and academic excellence.

To be approved, institutions must:

• Be fully accredited

• Demonstrate financial sustainability

• Maintain a strong federal composite score

• Uphold rigorous educational standards

Redemption Seminary has excelled in every area—thanks to our DEAC accreditation and innovative, student-first model that prioritizes quality, accessibility, and strategic stewardship over high overhead and bureaucracy.

What Does This Mean for You?

If you've been waiting for Redemption to offer programs in your state—your wait is over.

You can now apply to:
✅ Enroll from anywhere in the U.S. (and the world)
✅ Start at your own pace
✅ Build a rhythm of study into your life and ministry
✅ Work toward an affordable, accredited seminary degree without relocating or interrupting your calling

Ready to Begin?

Apply today and start shaping a learning journey that fits your calling, your schedule, and your budget.

Want more info first? Contact us and we’ll send you a copy of the Course Catalog and Student Handbook.

You’re now one decision away from starting seminary—no barriers, no borders. Join a growing community of students who are preparing to serve the church and advance the gospel across the street and around the world.

Redemption Seminary: Trusted. Accessible. Everywhere.

Join a Free
Live Virtual Tour

Mark your calendar for this Tuesday (July 29)
5:00 PM Pacific Time

Join the Live Zoom Meeting with this link:

https://zoom.us/j/94274655600

Join us and meet Dr. Joel Wingo (Academic Dean) and Dr. John Schwandt (President), hear more about Redemption's vision, and get your questions answered in real time.

Jesus' Final Words Misunderstood

“My God, My God—

For What Reason Did You Forsake Me?”

A Devotional Reflection on Jesus’ Cry from the Cross—Dr. John D. Schwandt

“Eloi, Eloi, lema sabachthani?”

— Mark 15:34 (quoting Psalm 22:1)

Through bloody parched lips, Jesus utters a cry that bewildered many on that day and continues to do so today.

We hear it and feel its weight. But then the questions come flooding in:

• How could Jesus say this?

• Was the Trinity somehow fractured in that moment?

• Did the Father truly abandon the Son?

Before we rush to resolve those questions with theology textbooks and systematic frameworks, we must pause.

Because something deeper is happening here—something tender, powerful, and personal.

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This Is the Age-Old Question—Perhaps the Most Important Question

Have you ever asked:
Why is this happening, Lord?
Why this pain, this loss, this silence?

King David asked it in Psalm 22.

My God, my God, why did you forsake me? Why are you so far from saving me?
So far from my cries of anguish? My God, I cry out by day, but you do not answer.

On the cross, we see Jesus crying out with this ancient question after mockers asked why, as Lord, that He wouldn’t save Himself.

This theme is also explicitly present in Psalm 22.

All who see me mock me; they hurl insults, shaking their heads. “He trusts in the Lord,” they say, “let the Lord rescue him. Let him deliver him, since he delights in him.”

His cry isn’t a trinitarian puzzle to solve—it is a witness to His love for us and an invitation for us to identify with Him. Not only does Jesus take on the punishment for our sins, but He also validates our struggles and lets us know that He sees us, which is something David questioned.

This is our deepest “Why?” as well—but He finds clarity and comfort in the unspoken answer.

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The Cry Is Real—but So Is the Relationship

Now here’s the next moment of clarity:
Even in that cry, Jesus still says, “My God.”

This isn’t despair. This is the relationship bearing the pain.
This is not faith unraveling—it’s faith enduring.

We often assume “forsaken” must mean “cut off.” But that’s not what’s happening here. In fact, Psalm 22—the psalm Jesus is quoting—goes on to say:

He has not hidden his face from him, but has listened to his cry for help.

It only takes the first few words of the Psalm to bring the whole thing to mind. Jesus is not crying out in vain to an unhearing Father. He is taking solace and comfort from his listening Father, who will not hide His face from Him—even when He is difficult to look upon. His cry is an acknowledgment of the abandonment of everything due to a king, and replacing it with the opposite: disrespect, embarrassment, ridicule, scorn, torture, pain, and execution—but all of this for a noble purpose.

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Jesus Knew the Answer to His Question—and That’s Why He Asked It

Jesus wasn’t confused. He knew exactly what was happening, why He was doing it, and what the result would be.

The next word in His cry is “Why.”

The meaning of “why” in this statement is “for what reason.” He is not asking about the causes that resulted in His death sentence. It is the type of “why” that refers to the result or goal of the execution.

There are at least two listeners involved in prayer: our Lord and ourselves. It is good for us to hear ourselves cry out in honesty, faith, and hope (even in pain and complete weakness), versus crying out in doubt and despair.

Jesus isn’t despairing with words that fell on deaf ears. By naming that He didn’t deserve this (i.e., He had been forsaken), He can find rest in the good that will come of it.

Consider the cries of a mother in labor with her first child, uncertain and fearful of the amount of pain that is occurring, but very certain of the good that will shortly come, and the determination to see it through. Often, it is focusing on the reason we are willing to endure the pain that provides continued or renewed endurance and peace. It is an “eye on the prize” mindset.

In Jesus’s final circumstance, staring death in the face, He asks His loving Father to remind him what all this is for—and assures His own heart that He will redeem His church.

This is the heart of redemption.
The cross doesn’t shout “God is absent.”
It shouts “God is willing.”

Willing to be pierced.
Willing to suffer.
Willing to not rescue His own Son—so He could rescue you.

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So, Was Jesus Really “Forsaken”?

Let’s look closer.

The Greek word (ἐγκαταλείπω) for “forsaken” in this verse is the same word used in many passages in the Bible that express how God will not forsake His own—e.g., Psalm 22, Deuteronomy 31:6 and 8, Hebrews 13:5, and others:

“I will never leave you or forsake you.”

How can Jesus be forsaken if the Father promises never to forsake?

The answer is this: Jesus was not forsaken in relationship—but in rescue.

The Father did not turn away from the Son—He refused to intervene.
He did not abandon Jesus—He entrusted Him to suffering for a greater purpose.

This wasn’t divine abandonment. It was divine alignment—with a mission of mercy.

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Even the Grammar Matters

The verb in this cry is typically translated dramatically with an English perfect tense—“have you forsaken”—when the Greek uses a simple past: “Why did you forsake me?”

This is key.

It’s not a description of an ongoing condition, but a pinpointed summary of the event—a past reference, not a rejection, and not a suggestion that the Father couldn’t look on Jesus for the next three hours. The focus is on what has just happened—all the shaming detailed in Psalm 22.

Jesus is saying, in essence:
“Father, why didn’t You stop this? Why didn’t You let this cup pass?”

But even in asking, He knows.

This was the plan. This was the price.
And that price is the proof of love.

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He Drank the Cup—So We Could Have the Promise

Earlier in the garden, Jesus prayed, “If it is possible, let this cup pass from me.”
Now, on the cross, He has drunk it to the last drop.

And what does He feel?

The full weight of sin.
The silence of heaven.
The absence of deliverance.

But not the absence of love.
Not the absence of the Father’s presence.
Not the breaking of the Trinity.

The Son still speaks to the Father.
The Father still hears.

And in that, we learn a stunning reality:
Even at your lowest, your darkest, your most broken context—God is still with you because of Christ’s sacrifice.

We learn from our Lord firsthand how to endure suffering. We don’t have to minimize the pain to find relief. We look to the rock-solid love that the Lord has for us—and when we are ready, look for blessings beyond it.

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The Real Power of the Cross

It’s not the intensity of the suffering that makes the cross sufficient.
It’s not how long Jesus hung there, or how badly He was beaten. We don’t have to do the “eye for eye” math on Jesus’ suffering to ensure that His suffering matched the punishment for every sin ever committed or that will be committed.

The sufficiency comes from who He is.

Only the sinless, blameless, perfect Son of God could offer Himself as a ransom for many. He rightfully is the representative for all humankind—except that He is perfectly blameless.

One slap would have been infinitely undeserved.

His punishment and death are not a tragic end—it’s the triumphant offering of the perfect lamb to replace our death sentence with eternal life. So perfect is the lamb that He is the final offering ever needed for every sin, no matter how gross.

You can cry out to the Lord because He allowed your punishment to be laid upon Him.

The pain is real.
The high cost is a testimony to how much He values the prize.

His cry rhetorically asks:
What is the prize for all this?
The answer: you.

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Why Did the Father Allow It?

Let’s ask the question again:

Why did the Father forsake Jesus, allowing Him to be tortured, humiliated, and crucified?

It couldn’t have been easy for the Father to send His willing Son for this mission and watch Jesus endure the cross for His prize—but He had to be so proud of the faithfulness demonstrated in that hour.

Why did the Father forsake to deliver Jesus?

• Because of His faithfulness to His promise to dwell with His people.

• Because truth and justice demanded satisfaction.

• Because He was claiming His inheritance—you.

• Because fellowship wasn’t broken—it was poured out and demonstrated, through love, to make you part of it.

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The Paradox of Suffering

God with us is both the primary promise and the central paradox presented throughout Scripture.

In His cry from the cross, Jesus reveals that there is a way for God to be fully with His chosen one—and with the people He is redeeming.

The Father forsook delivering Jesus from the cross—but never for a moment did He forsake Him relationally. In the greatest act of love in history, their bond endured and blossomed.

Just as David asked why the Lord had forsaken him—only to later affirm that God would never forsake him—Jesus expresses that same situational forsaking, but holds firm to the Lord’s promised presence.

When Jesus cried out, “Why?” He did more than express agony and strengthen His heart for its purpose. He held up a mirror to every human heart that longs for the Lord’s presence in suffering.

And through that question, He leads us to the greatest answer the world has ever known:

“The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Deuteronomy 31:8)

He didn’t forsake His relationship or His love for Jesus.
He won’t forsake you.

So today, if you find yourself in a place of pain, loss, or silence, remember:

• Jesus has been there.

• He asked your question.

• And His answer—and His gift—to you was the cross.

I invite you to share your thoughts about the devotional and encouragement for others below.

All Books Included

Graduate with a Library not a Loan

All books, recorded lectures, and required readings are included with each course.

When you pursue a Master of Arts degree at Redemption Seminary, you’re not just earning a degree—you’re building a lifelong ministry toolkit. One of the program’s most significant benefits is that every course includes access to a custom digital library, designed to equip you for ministry far beyond your studies.

This isn’t just any library. It’s a customized Logos digital library packed with theological resources, commentaries, and tools carefully curated for each course. If you were to purchase these resources individually, their value would exceed $23,000. At Redemption Seminary, however, these materials come included with your tuition, eliminating the need for additional book purchases. The best part is that after completing all of the courses in the MABS program, the library is transferred to your personal library as a graduation gift.

Why does this matter?

• It allows you to budget with confidence. There are no hidden book fees or unexpected costs—what you see is what you pay. This simplicity is a refreshing change from traditional models where students are often left scrambling to purchase expensive textbooks each semester.

• The value extends beyond financial savings. By the time you graduate, this digital library becomes your personal ministry resource, filled with the tools and texts you’ve already studied and applied throughout your program. Whether you’re preparing sermons, leading Bible studies, or conducting theological research, this library becomes a trusted companion in your ministry.

• Traditional seminary programs often leave graduates with limited access to the resources they used during their studies. Redemption Seminary flips this model, ensuring that what you learn remains accessible for years to come. This approach not only saves money but also empowers graduates to continue growing and serving effectively in their calling.

In essence, Redemption Seminary’s approach reflects its mission: to prepare you for ministry by providing practical, long-term tools for success. Including this $23,000 library ensures that you leave the program with a degree and the resources to make a meaningful impact in your ministry.

When considering the next step in your theological education, think beyond tuition. Consider the tools and resources you’ll carry with you. At Redemption Seminary, it’s not just about earning a degree—it’s about equipping you for a lifetime of ministry.

Inquire now to learn more about how Redemption can support your journey.

Redemption Seminary Year in Review: 2024 Highlights

As 2024 comes to a close, we celebrate a year of incredible milestones and blessings at Redemption Seminary. This has truly been a transformative year in our journey of equipping students for impactful ministry.

Newly Accredited

This year marks a significant achievement—Redemption Seminary received accreditation! Since welcoming our first students in 2020, we have prayed and worked diligently toward this goal. We are deeply grateful to the Lord for His faithfulness in guiding us to this milestone. (Read more.)

New Academic Management System

In 2024, we implemented a new academic management system to handle grades, student accounts, and transcripts. While the transition required navigating a steep learning curve, the result has been transformative. Our communication with prospective students is more streamlined, and our administrative services are now highly efficient and scalable, setting us up for continued growth.

New Courses and Programs

We expanded our academic offerings this year with the introduction of original language courses, beginning with biblical Greek. Additionally, we are thrilled to add Dr. Lynn Cohick’s engaging recorded courses on the New Testament to our curriculum. Dr. Cohick is a renowned scholar, and her teaching is a notable addition to our program. These advancements also lay the foundation for future offerings, such as the planned 72-credit Master of Divinity program, building on the MABS degree.

New Location

In 2024, we moved our administrative office to a new space in Mesa, Arizona. We are grateful to Logos Bible Software for hosting us in their offices up to this point. Now, we are excited to be part of Launchpoint, a technology accelerator and home to the Mesa Center for Higher Education. This professional and innovative setting aligns perfectly with Redemption’s mission and vision. (See pictures and read more about it on the announcement page.)

New Board Members

We are excited to welcome two new members to our Board of Trustees:

• Gregory Richardson: A Redemption alumnus and leader in the cybersecurity sector, Gregory’s expertise in technology and theology makes him a valuable addition to our leadership team.

• Jesse Myers: As the CEO of Baker Books, Jesse brings extensive publishing experience and a deep understanding of Redemption’s mission, having supported our launch during his time at Logos.

New Partnerships

This year, we forged relationships with new partners, including Our Daily Bread University, OverviewBible, Hope for the Heart, Missional International Church Network, and ProPreacher. These partnerships complement our longstanding collaborations with AWKNG School of Theology and Logos. Visit our partner page to learn more about these exciting developments.

New Accelerated Start Process

Thanks to Dr. Joel Wingo, our Academic Dean, we’ve streamlined the onboarding experience. The RS450 course has been integrated into the first course of each student’s program, allowing them to dive into their studies while simultaneously learning to use essential tools like Logos Bible Software.

New Records in Growth and Achievement

This year brought record-breaking numbers:

• Enrollment: We admitted over 80 new students, growing our student body to nearly 170.

• Graduates: 19 students earned their Master of Arts in Biblical Studies, bringing our total number of graduates to 37 since our inception. We’re now developing alumni benefits to support their ongoing ministry journeys.

• Net Promoter Score: Redemption achieved an extraordinary score of 91, far surpassing the higher education benchmark of 51. This reflects the enthusiasm of our students and alumni for recommending our seminary to others.

New Territories Reached

In 2024, we expanded to serve students in three new states. Obtaining state authorizations is often a lengthy and costly process, and we are deeply thankful for the donor support that enabled this progress. With accreditation and financial stability now in place, we are preparing to apply for participation in NC-SARA in 2025. This will allow us to serve students in even more states, setting the stage for further growth in the coming year.

Looking Ahead

As we reflect on 2024, we are filled with gratitude and anticipation for what lies ahead in 2025. From new opportunities to serve students nationwide to expanding our programs and partnerships, we trust the Lord to continue guiding us in our mission.

Happy New Year from all of us at Redemption Seminary!

Watch this short interview to hear more about accreditation and hear from a recent Redemption Seminary graduate about his experience and how he is using his degree, learning, and why Redemption Seminary is aptly named. Also, please meet Mr. Gregory Richardson (new board member), who is a guest in this interview.

Please help us celebrate by leaving comments on this blog post and sharing it with your friends. Thank you!

Christmas Devotional (Luke 2:40)

Scripture Reading: Luke 2:40

And the child grew and became strong,
filled with wisdom, and the favor of God was upon him.

Devotional Thoughts:

Luke 2:40 highlights the growth of Jesus in body, mind, and spirit. This follows the miraculous beginnings of both John the Baptist (Luke 1:80) and Jesus, affirming that God’s promises always come to fruition. As Mary was told, “Nothing will be impossible with God” (Luke 1:37). Jesus thrived, growing in strength, wisdom, and divine favor—just as we are called to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ (2 Peter 3:18).

Application:

As we read the beginning of Luke, this verse invites us to rest in the truth that Jesus, though born humbly, was honored by God. His growth and favor serve as a promise for our own spiritual journey. As children of God, we too are called to honor Him with our strength, wisdom, and spirit, knowing that His favor rests upon us. This Christmas, you can bless the Lord by reflecting on your growth. Today, consider how the grace of the Lord shapes and molds your habits, thoughts, and affections as He fulfills His mission for you.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your faithfulness. Thank You for sending Your Son to provide and lead the way. May we grow in strength and wisdom, honoring You with our hearts and lives. Fill us with Your love and continue to guide us in Your mission. To Jesus be the glory. Amen.

Redemption's New Location

We have a New Location!

Redemption Seminary has moved our headquarters. We are still based out of the Phoenix area and have upgraded our office facilities to a space at the Mesa Center of Higher Education.

This new facility was made for new non-profit educational institutions like Redemption Seminary and is another way Redemption keeps tuition low for students. We currently rent one administrative office space at this facility and remain committed to offering all programs 100% online.

Our new mailing address is 245 W Second St, Suite 25, Mesa AZ 85201. You will notice the updated address in the footer of every webpage at Redemption.edu.

Please join us in thanking the Lord for such a great headquarters.

More than a Start-up

Even though this new location is designed to help start-ups, Redemption Seminary is established. It was incorporated in 2018. We started enrolling students in 2020 and had over 20 graduates in the MABS program by the summer of 2024.

Read the Full History

Overcoming Barriers to Seminary

Listen to Brandon Hilgemann’s conversation with Dr. Schwandt about Redemption’s Innovative Model

Brandon Hilgemann has a YouTube channel. This week he has an interview with Dr. John Schwandt where they get into the founding story and innovations that Redemption Seminary is offering to adults interested in learning theology in a serious and programmatic way — but a way that accommodates and integrates with a realistic busy life.

Learn More

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Redemption Seminary is Accredited!

The wait is over! At their January meeting, the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC) voted to grant accreditation to Redemption Seminary. The announcement letter we received from DEAC on February 23rd explains why this is a such significant milestone:

“Accreditation by DEAC is a reliable indicator of the value and quality of the distance education that an institution offers. In receiving this initial grant of accreditation, Redemption Seminary has demonstrated its commitment to educational standards and ethical business practices that assure quality, accountability, and improvement in higher education.”

— DEAC Announcement Letter (Feb. 23rd, 2024)

Why DEAC? As an agency that specializes in accreditation of institutions offering degrees primarily through distance education, DEAC has been recognized by the U. S. Department of Education since 1959, and is also recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), which “accredits accreditors.” This means that DEAC accreditation is second to none in terms of federal recognition and the high standards to which accreditors are held accountable by CHEA. Because Redemption Seminary offers all its programs through distance education, the expertise of DEAC’s staff, Commissioners, and peer institutions has been invaluable. With the distinction between regional and national accreditation eliminated at the federal level and some accreditors keeping requirements in place that apply only to traditional seminary models (such as substantial physical facilities and group-based instruction), DEAC proved to be the best choice for Redemption’s pursuit of accreditation in light of our commitments to self-paced distance learning and 1:1 student-faculty interaction. DEAC is a peer community of institutions (including faith-based institutions) serving hundreds of thousands of students through distance education, and we have greatly benefited from the conferences we have attended and the many colleagues we have learned from during the accreditation process.

What is next for Redemption? During the accreditation review period, it was not possible to make any substantive changes to our curriculum or programs. Now that Redemption is accredited, we can turn more of our energy toward enhancing our educational offerings with new courses and programs while continuing to improve all our existing offerings and services to students. Keep an eye on this blog for future updates on the new courses and programs we will be offering. We thank the Lord for the grace he has given us to reach accreditation, and we trust him to lead us forward as we all continue to “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18).

— Dr. Joel Wingo, Academic Dean

Watch this short interview to hear more about accreditation and hear from a recent Redemption Seminary graduate about his experience and how he is using his degree, learning, and why Redemption Seminary is aptly named.

Please help us celebrate by leaving comments on this blog post and sharing it with your friends. Thank you!

Covering the Evaluation Day for the Institution in Prayer

Help cover the day with prayer

We are excited to invite you to be a part of a powerful and transformative moment in the life of Redemption Seminary. As we strive to continue our mission to provide excellence in distance education and spiritual growth, we are humbled to announce that the day of our accreditation evaluation has arrived. Please consider being part of this important day by scheduling 15 minutes of prayer for the seminary on this day.

Date: Thursday, August 31st
Time: 9:00 AM — 5:30 PM PST
Location: Wherever you are!

On this significant day, a visiting team will evaluate Redemption Seminary's programs, faculty, facilities, and overall commitment to our students' growth and spiritual development. As we prepare to showcase the dedication and excellence that define us, we recognize the importance of seeking the Lord’s blessing, guidance, and support. In light of this, we invite you to join in an organized day of prayer to uplift and cover our institution in prayer during the evaluation day.

How You Can Participate

As part of our statement of faith, we believe in the power of prayer to shape our present and influence our future. Every 15-minute interval throughout the day will allow you to join in a collective prayer for guidance and blessings. Whether you are a student, alumnus, faculty member, staff member, or part of our extended community, your prayers matter.

1. Open the prayer sign-up list (Google Sheet) https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1yFz7bHn1fm_SVp12rGRStAl_vCyZl-FczFJS-4q3dRY/edit#gid=0

2. Choose the 15-minute time slot in which you will be praying.

3. (You are welcome to sign up for more than one.)

4. Type your name (or initials), city, and state abbreviation in a payer partner cell. (This is so the community can know how the day is covered in prayer and the breadth of the community supporting the seminary.)

5. Prepare to dedicate your 15 minutes to prayer and reflection on behalf of Redemption Seminary.

During your chosen time slot, we have provided a potential conversation or event that could be occurring during that time. The site visit evaluators alter the schedule as they need, so please pray as the Spirit leads. In addition to these events, consider the following areas for prayer.

Success: Pray that the seminary can clearly show how it has complied with the accreditation standards. If any additional work needs to be done, pray that the visitation team can clearly articulate it so that the seminary can make any necessary adjustments and provide evidence of successful improvement within 30 days.  (We are not aware of any areas where we aren’t in compliance and we hope that the evaluators agree.)

Guidance and Wisdom: Pray that the evaluators wisely and adequately evaluate the seminary. Also, pray that our faculty, staff, leadership, and students present the strengths of Redemption Seminary clearly and confidently.

Peace and Strength: Ask that everyone involved in the evaluation will be healthy, well-rested, and excited (rather than nervous) for the opportunity to reflect and discuss how Redemption is honoring the Lord and achieving its mission by providing quality distance education, helping students grow, positively affecting ministries.

Divine Favor: Seek God's favor as we open our doors to the visiting accreditation team. Pray that their evaluation accurately reflects the passion and commitment that we pour into our seminary.

Impact and Reach: Pray that the impact of Redemption Seminary's teachings ripples out into the world, touching lives with the redeeming grace of Jesus in faith, hope, and love.

Gratitude: Offer gratitude for the journey we've embarked upon, the many blessings that have brought us to this point, and the benefits that students and graduates are already enjoying.

Your participation in this day of prayer is a testament to the strength of our community and our shared belief in the transformative power of Christ-centered faithful education. Let us come together in spirit, no matter where we are physically, to support Redemption Seminary's accreditation evaluation with unwavering faith and trust in God's plan for our institution.

Thank you for being an essential part of this journey. Your prayers hold immeasurable value as we step forward into this crucial moment. May our collective efforts be guided by faith and love, and may our commitment to excellence shine brightly.

Learners and Leaders Livestream Event

Check out Redemption’s 2023 livestream event with learners and leaders!

Watch an inspiring discussion with answers to practical questions from an amazing panel of guests. The hour flew by. We recorded the live stream (except for a brief glitch in the middle) and have posted it on Redemption’s YouTube channel for you to watch.

If you haven’t enrolled yet, we have extended the $20 application fee discount through the month of August. Here is the link to take advantage of that discount.

We hope you find the webinar recording both informative and inspiring.

Healing Over the Holidays: A Hopeful Recommendation

The holiday season can be a bittersweet time, filled with both joy and sorrow. If you're struggling with difficult emotions or life challenges, I’m thankful that June Hunt has amassed a treasure trove of resources that I recommend: Hope for the Heart.

This incredible ministry offers a wealth of resources to help you heal and grow spiritually. I recently attended their annual conference and was truly inspired by the wisdom and compassion shared by June Hunt. Her personal journey and unwavering faith have led her to create a ministry that provides practical guidance and biblical truth.

Why Hope for the Heart?

• Comprehensive Resources: From articles and videos to books and online courses, Hope for the Heart offers something for everyone. Their top five most-requested resources address common issues like anxiety, abuse, forgiveness, grief, and anger.

• Expert Guidance: June Hunt's insightful advice and biblical wisdom are invaluable. Her "Keys for Living" book series delves deeper into various topics, providing practical steps for overcoming challenges.

• Certificate Programs: Besides its resources, Hope for the Heart offers educational programs for those seeking to deepen their understanding of faith and ministry. Redemption and Hope for the Heart are also developing a deeper relationship to benefit Redemption students who have completed programs through Hope for the Heart.

If you're looking for hope, healing, and spiritual growth, I encourage you to explore the resources offered by Hope for the Heart. You can visit their website or consider attending their annual conference.

There are no hopeless situations, only people who have grown hopeless. … As you share God's hope, you can be hope for someone who desperately needs it. (June Hunt — Based on Hebrews 6:19)

Save the date announcements

• Called to Care Symposium titled “Mental Health and the Church” – Saturday, June 21, 2025 (9:00 am – 5:00 pm) at the Plano Event Center (2000 E Spring Creek Pkwy., Plano, TX). If you’re interested in attending either in person or online, fill out this quick form.

• The Hope Together Conference – September 25-27, 2025 at the Marriott Dallas Allen Hotel & Convention Center (777 Watters Creek Blvd., Allen, TX) – https://hopetogether.com/

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Have you ever used Hope for the Heart's resources? Share your experiences in the comments below.

Where Students Can Find Help

Places to Look for Instructions

The Student Handbook is a treasure trove for information about how students, mentors, and the administration all work together.

The Foundations course (RS450) is the first course students take and must be completed before they may register for any other course. It remains open for all students to review. It provides instructions for using Logos and Zotero.

Help with Logos

If you are looking for help with Logos software, Logos has great videos for students in partner institutions like Redemption Seminary. www.logos.com/student-training

Help with Google Docs

Google has a great search function 😁. Often you can type a question in the Google search bar at Google.com and the first result will answer your question. Google also has a support forum. There are also Google Doc video tutorials on YouTube.

Help with Zotero

We recommend and provide some training for students to use Zotero (no cost for students) for their reference manager. At the master’s level, it is important to use some type of manager to keep track of citation sources, quotes, and personal commentary on resources. Zotero can be an excellent tool for that. There are many tutorials for performing various tasks in Zotero on YouTube. Zotero also has a support forum for users. It also has a thorough online manual organized by topics with a quick start guide, a knowledge base, and a place with frequently asked questions.

If you find yourself having difficulties with Zotero, please don't let it slow you down. You are welcome to use any other system to manage sources and references. Zotero works best with the Firefox browser.

Contacting Others for Help

We encourage you to interact with the Redemption community on the Redemption Seminary forum in Redemption's Official Discord server (group) where students and faculty stay in communication and assist each other. For Discord, you will need to create an account first if you don't have one and then click on this invite link to join the Redemption server: https://discord.gg/Qw4J6zBST7.

Other students are amazing resources to provide advice and answer the whole range of questions. Feel free to post questions to other students and the whole Redemption community at https://faithlife.com/redemption-seminary/activity

If you have questions about Logos Bible Software, there is a great forum with very helpful users who have the experience and generosity to answer most questions about using Logos: https://community.logos.com/forums/

You also can email or call Logos customer support for help at customerservice@faithlife.com or (800) 875-6467. This is where to go if you have questions specific to your account about accessing Logos resources.

Email registrar@RedemptionSeminary.org with questions about registering with a mentor, your tuition plan, or your student file. Please direct questions about the course or curriculum content to mentors. Part of building your Course Portfolio for each course is noting questions you have about the course content. Your mentor can provide guidance with respect to your work within a course when you eventually meet in a home stretch term. Between each home stretch term there is at least one week of break. This is when we can review how things are going in each course and make corrections and improvements to curriculum. If you have a list of items that could help improve the course you took please submit them to your mentor by the end of your home stretch term.

For the Common Christian– Not Merely the Elite

The Bible was written for the ordinary person. The dialect of Greek used for the New Testament is called Koiné, which means “ordinary.” Likewise, Redemption Seminary is designed for ordinary adult Christians to consider at a serious level how the Bible applies to their life. It welcomes students who have plenty of room to grow both in mind and spirit. Through the mentoring and competency-based approach the instruction adapts to the student. This allows adult Christians who have not been eligible for traditional programs to have access to high-level training in a way that accommodates their life.

Some of the most prestigious schools boast of an exclusive learning experience reserved for less than 5% of the prospective students who apply. They have rigorous and competitive admission requirements to ensure that only the elite will ever don their regalia, peruse their special collections, wander their corridors, and benefit from ultimately influential relationships acquired during their program. One can understand the inherent benefit of only accepting the elite. They don’t require much assistance and are more likely to become elites in other aspects of society after they graduate. Having graduates scattered through influential positions throughout society brings all sorts of direct and residual benefits back to the institution. Although this approach makes strategic sense, it isn’t shaped by the gospel.

At its core, the gospel cherishes the image of God inherent in every person. It functions upon principles that value the weak over the institution. It doesn’t expect to change society through the positioning of a few influential elites, but expects to change society through the growth and love of redeemed hearts in every facet of society. The time tested practice of personal mentorship allows for a customized learning experience that can meet the needs of those challenged by the traditional system and satisfy the soaring expectations of the elite.

The open enrollment model for Redemption Seminary is based upon Jesus' open call for all to follow him. However, there is an appropriate time for different types of teaching. “When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put the ways of childhood behind me.” (NIV 1 Cor 13:11) The graduate-level programs at Redemption seminary are designed for ordinary Christian adults, who now reason with experience gained from this stage of life. The straightforward admission process and initial steps in the curriculum are designed to ensure the program is a good fit for the student with minimal risk.

The Anatomy of the Redemption Seal

The seal for Redemption Seminary says a lot about the school. This info-graphic is a great start for learning what Redemption Seminary is all about. Another good reference is the Redemption strategy page, which explains the four R’s that define the major aspects of the school’s distinctive approach to higher education.