The Scheme of Redemption, Jim Laws, Editor

The Scheme of Redemption, Jim Laws, Editor

This book is from the 1990 Spiritual Sword Lectureship which was dedicated to Guy N. Woods. It deals with the intricate plan that God designed from before the foundation of the world to redeem man from sin and restore his relationship with God. Some have commented about the golden thread that runs through the Bible which is sometimes referred to as the scheme of redemption. When one considers the intricacies that God designed for the redemption of man, it should result in a constant state of awe of how awesome the God is that we serve. Consider Peter’s words in reference to the scheme of redemption: “Of this salvation the prophets have inquired and searched carefully, who prophesied of the grace that would come to you, searching what, or what manner of time, the Spirit of Christ who was in them was indicating when He testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ and the glories that would follow. To them it was revealed that, not to themselves, but to us they were ministering the things which now have been reported to you through those who have preached the gospel to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven—things which angels desire to look into.” (1 Peter 1:10-12)

The book is divided into five main sections. The first section is an overview of the scheme of redemption including the design of the plan by God and its design for proclamation. The second section focuses on the scheme of redemption throughout the Old Testament. It deals with the Patriarchs and the nation of Israel and their role in the ultimate scheme of redemption for all of mankind. The third section deals with the scheme of redemption prior to the coming of Jesus. It includes comparisons of the old and new covenants in worship and other aspects relating to man’s redemption. It also shows the preparation that was completed leading up to the arrival of the Messiah including the work of John the Immerser. The fourth section deals with the full unveiling of God’s scheme of redemption as it was launched by Jesus and carried forth by the church. It discusses the role of the church and the Bible today in the redemptive plans of God. The fifth section deals with defenses of the scheme of redemption against errors that would blind people from the great work that God had accomplished through Christ on their behalf. It deals with the errors of Calvinism, Premillennialism, Secular Humanism, and other challenges that we must work to combat in order to show others the plan God has designed for the redemption of their souls. It shows the method with which the Holy Spirit operates today to draw mankind to the salvation of their souls—the proclamation of the gospel through the written word.

The book contains 36 manuscripts written by conservative men who respect the integrity and authority of the word of God. It would benefit students both in private and public study. I often refer to the book as I prepare lessons around this theme. The systematic structure of the book lends itself to reading straight through continuously with great enjoyment and profit. Study of this theme will prove to you that truly God is the master of the universe and is in control. We may not understand all that happens in our lives. Neither did those in the Bible. When confusing times arise that seem inexplicable, I try to remember the words of my dad—“Not all accounts are settled in this life.” Indeed, God does have a wonderful plan for us in eternity that is a source of great hope for us to be able to endure whatever this life that is impacted by the sin of the world experiences.

Originally printed West Virginia Christian, Vol. 10, No. 11, November 2003, p. 8. Reprinted by permission.