Understanding key biblical terms helps believers grow in wisdom, deepen their faith, and interpret Scripture with clarity. This glossary gathers essential words beginning with “R”, offering simple definitions, related Bible verses, and spiritual insights to support your study and walk with God.
Bible Glossary — R
Ransom
Definition: The price paid to redeem or rescue someone from bondage.
Scripture: Mark 10:45
Insight: Jesus gave His life as a ransom for many, revealing God’s sacrificial love.
Reconciliation
Definition: The restoring of a broken relationship, especially between God and humanity.
Scripture: 2 Corinthians 5:18
Insight: Through Christ, believers are reconciled to God and called to extend reconciliation to others.
Redemption
Definition: God’s act of delivering people from sin through Jesus Christ.
Scripture: Ephesians 1:7
Insight: Redemption highlights both God’s justice and His deep mercy.
Refuge
Definition: A place of safety, protection, and comfort in God.
Scripture: Psalm 46:1
Insight: Believers can run to God as their secure refuge in times of trouble.
Repent / Repentance
Definition: A sincere turning away from sin and turning back to God.
Scripture: Acts 3:19
Insight: Repentance brings spiritual renewal and restoration.
Resurrection
Definition: Rising from the dead; most importantly, Jesus rising on the third day.
Scripture: John 11:25
Insight: The resurrection is the foundation of Christian hope and eternal life.
Righteous / Righteousness
Definition: Moral purity and being in right standing with God.
Scripture: Matthew 5:6
Insight: Righteousness is received by faith and expressed through obedience.
River of Life
Definition: A symbol of God’s eternal blessing and life flowing from His presence.
Scripture: Revelation 22:1
Insight: Represents the fullness and purity of God’s eternal kingdom.
Rock (God as Rock)
Definition: A metaphor for God’s strength, stability, and faithfulness.
Scripture: Psalm 18:2
Insight: God is a firm foundation when life feels unstable.
Rooted in Christ
Definition: Being deeply grounded in Jesus so that faith grows strong.
Scripture: Colossians 2:7
Insight: Rooted believers remain steady through trials and spiritual challenges.
Royal Priesthood
Definition: A title given to believers who are chosen to worship and serve God.
Scripture: 1 Peter 2:9
Insight: Christians are called to represent God and carry His light into the world.
Revelation
Definition: God revealing His truth—through Scripture, creation, or the Holy Spirit.
Scripture: Revelation 1:1
Insight: Revelation shows God’s plan and invites believers to deeper understanding.
Remnant
Definition: A small group of faithful believers preserved by God.
Scripture: Romans 11:5
Insight: God always keeps a faithful remnant to carry out His purpose.
Restore / Restoration
Definition: God’s work of renewing, healing, and rebuilding what is broken.
Scripture: Psalm 23:3
Insight: God restores hearts, relationships, and hope.
Reverence
Definition: Deep respect and awe for God’s holiness.
Scripture: Hebrews 12:28
Insight: Reverence shapes worship and daily obedience.
Rebirth / Regeneration
Definition: The spiritual transformation and new life given by the Holy Spirit.
Scripture: Titus 3:5
Insight: Regeneration is the beginning of a believer’s new identity in Christ.
Reap / Reaping
Definition: Receiving the results of one’s actions—good or bad.
Scripture: Galatians 6:7
Insight: God’s justice ensures that what is sown will be reaped in due time.
Riches
Definition: Material wealth or spiritual blessings.
Scripture Reference: Proverbs 10:22
Simple Meaning: God’s blessing brings true prosperity, not just material wealth.
Righteous Branch
Definition: A prophetic term for the Messiah who brings justice.
Scripture Reference: Jeremiah 23:5
Simple Meaning: Jesus fulfills God’s promise as the righteous king.
Rock of Ages
Definition: A metaphor for God’s eternal strength and salvation.
Scripture Reference: Isaiah 26:4
Simple Meaning: God is our unchanging refuge in all generations.
Reward / Rewards
Definition: Blessings given by God for faithfulness and obedience.
Scripture Reference: Matthew 6:20
Simple Meaning: God honors those who seek His kingdom and righteousness.
Righteous Judgment
Definition: God’s fair and holy evaluation of deeds.
Scripture Reference: John 5:30
Simple Meaning: God judges righteously and with perfect justice.
Rest
Definition: Spiritual and physical peace found in God.
Scripture Reference: Matthew 11:28–29
Simple Meaning: God invites His people to rest in Him, relieving burdens.
Ransomed / Ransomed by Christ
Definition: Freed from sin and death through Jesus’ sacrifice.
Scripture Reference: 1 Corinthians 6:20
Simple Meaning: Believers are bought at a price and belong to God.
Righteous Living
Definition: Living in a way that aligns with God’s will and Word.
Scripture Reference: Romans 12:1–2
Simple Meaning: Daily obedience and devotion reflect God’s character.
Rejoice / Rejoicing
Definition: Expressing gladness and praise to God.
Scripture Reference: Philippians 4:4
Simple Meaning: Joy in the Lord strengthens faith and inspires hope.
