Reconcilation

1 definition found

From Easton's 1897 Bible Dictionary [easton]:

  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 Col. 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 Cor. 5:20 the apostle beseeches the
     Corinthians to be "reconciled to God", i.e., to lay aside their
     enmity.
     
       (2.) Rom. 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. So also 2 Cor. 5:18, 19 speaks of a
     reconciliation originating with God, and consisting in the
     removal of his merited wrath. In Eph. 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}.)