Lesson 9: Redeeming the Time in Evil Days

Text: “See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.” — Ephesians 5:15–16, KJV

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1. Introduction: The Urgency of Time in the Last Days

We live in an age where distractions are plentiful, moral corruption is increasing, and opportunities for spiritual service are easily missed. Paul exhorts believers to “redeem” or buy back the time—meaning to make the most of every God-given opportunity—because the days are evil, hostile to the Gospel and the Christian walk. In the context of the end times, this principle becomes even more urgent.

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2. Understanding “Redeeming the Time”

• Redeem (exagorazō in Greek) means to buy up or rescue from loss. In the marketplace of life, time is a commodity—once spent, it cannot be regained.

• This is not simply about time management, but purposeful living for God’s glory.

• The evil days we live in require alertness and intentionality—living with the mindset that time is short.

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3. Why the Days Are Called “Evil”

• Moral Decline (2 Timothy 3:1–5) – The increase of selfishness, violence, immorality.

• Spiritual Deception (1 Timothy 4:1) – Doctrines of devils and false teachings spreading rapidly.

• Persecution and Hostility (John 15:19–20) – The world system is against God’s truth.

• Busyness and Distraction (Luke 10:40–42) – The enemy uses even neutral activities to drain our time from eternal priorities.

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4. Practical Ways to Redeem the Time in the End Times

1. Prioritize Your Daily Walk with God

   • Begin each day with prayer and the Word (Psalm 5:3; Joshua 1:8).

2. Invest in Eternal Works

   • Serve in evangelism, discipleship, and acts of mercy (Matthew 6:19–21).

3. Eliminate Time-Wasters

   • Cut back on media, idle talk, and activities with no eternal value (Colossians 4:5).

4. Discern God’s Will for Your Season of Life

   • Align your schedule with God’s assignment for you now (Romans 12:2).

5. Act Promptly on the Spirit’s Leading

   • Delayed obedience is often disobedience (James 4:17).

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5. Biblical Examples of Redeeming the Time

• Noah – Preached righteousness while building the ark before judgment came (Hebrews 11:7).

• Paul – Traveled, preached, and wrote relentlessly, knowing his time was short (Acts 20:24).

• The Early Church – Seized every opportunity to spread the Gospel despite persecution (Acts 8:4).

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6. End-Time Connection

Redeeming the time means living in a constant readiness for Christ’s return (Matthew 24:46). The closer we get to the end, the more intense our work must be. As Jesus said in John 9:4:

“I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work.”

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7. Reflection Questions

1. What are the biggest “time wasters” in your life that keep you from doing God’s work?

2. How can you restructure your daily routine to give more time to spiritual priorities?

3. In what way can your current opportunities be maximized for evangelism and service?

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8. Group Challenge / Application

• Action Plan: This week, list three activities that consume your time without contributing to your spiritual growth or kingdom work. Replace them with intentional prayer, study, or acts of service.

• Group Activity: Share one way you will practically redeem the time before the next meeting. Keep each other accountable.