Reconcilation: A change from enmity to friendship. It is mutual, i.e., it is a change
wrought in both parties who have been at enmity.1. In
(Colossians 1:21,22) the word there used refers to a change wrought
in the personal character of the sinner who ceases to be an
enemy to God by wicked works, and yields up to him his full
confidence and love. In
(2 Corinthians 5:20) the apostle beseeches the
Corinthians to be "reconciled to God", i.e., to lay aside their
enmity.
2.
(Romans 5:10) refers not to any change in our disposition toward God,
but to God himself, as the party reconciled.
(Romans 5:11) teaches
the same truth. From God we have received "the reconciliation"
(R.V.), i.e., he has conferred on us the token of his
friendship. The Song of Solomon also
(2 Corinthians 5:18,19) speaks of a reconciliation
originating with God, and consisting in the removal of his
merited wrath. In
(Ephesians 2:16) it is clear that the apostle does
not refer to the winning back of the sinner in love and loyalty
to God, but to the restoration of God's forfeited favour. This
is effected by his justice being satisfied, so that he can, in
consistency with his own nature, be favourable toward sinners.
Justice demands the punishment of sinners. The death of Christ
satisfies justice, and so reconciles God to us. This
reconciliation makes God our friend, and enables him to pardon
and save us.
(See ATONEMENT)
