What does it mean to be ransomed by God? In 1 Peter 1:17–21, we are reminded that our redemption was not purchased with silver or gold, but with the precious blood of Christ. This truth reshapes how we live, how we hope, and how we approach God.

Because the ransom has been paid, believers can live with confidence—not in themselves, but in the finished work of Christ, the eternal will of God, and the hope secured through the resurrection.

After the flood, God spoke to Noah and established a covenant that would shape the future of the world. In Genesis 9:1–17, God reveals His grace through the fulfillment of His eternal will, the provision of His law, and the patience of His covenant promise.

Even in a world still corrupted by sin, the rainbow stands as a reminder that God’s grace continues to restrain judgment and provide hope.

In this expositional sermon from 2 Thessalonians 3:16-18, pastor Ben Smith makes clear that being saved through faith in Jesus Christ is the only source of peace and the only hope of grace. Although simple and brief, these concluding words to the Thessalonian church testify to the hope and blessing of salvation, encouraging the church to continue in the faith.

These are Paul’s last recorded words to the Thessalonian church. He signs the letter to ensure that they will know that these words are authentically his (17). The church had received a counterfeit letter (2 Thessalonians 2:2), and Paul wanted to assure the church that this letter was genuine, authentic, and authoritative. In addition to his signature, he prays for them and blesses them. Both the prayer and the blessing are founded on their salvation in Jesus Christ. Paul wanted to remind the church of the blessings that flow from salvation in Jesus Christ.

These verses encourage the church with two blessings that flow from salvation in Jesus Christ: 1) The peace that comes only from Jesus Christ, and 2) the grace of Jesus Christ.