Ransom
Category
Salvation & Redemption
Biblical Definition
The redemptive price by which a captive is set free, used in the New Testament to describe Christ's self-giving death for sinners.
Origin(s)
Greek: λύτρον
Transliteration
lytron
Literal meaning
ransom price, redemption payment
Key Scripture(s)
Matthew 20:28; Mark 10:45; 1 Timothy 2:5-6; Exodus 21:30; Exodus 30:12
Theological Significance
Ransom language highlights both bondage and costly deliverance. Christ's death is presented as the decisive price securing the freedom of His people from sin and its penalty.
Common Misunderstanding(s)
Historic Christian teaching does not require the idea that a ransom was paid to Satan. Scripture stresses the cost and effectiveness of Christ's sacrifice, not a commercial bargain with the evil one.
Practical Application
Ransom deepens gratitude for Christ's sacrifice and reminds believers that they were bought to belong to God, not to live for themselves.