What role does Jesus Christ play in our reconciliation, according to Romans 5:11? A Snapshot of the Passage “Not only that, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.” (Romans 5:11) Key Word: Reconciliation • Literally means “to change thoroughly; to bring back into favor.” • Implies that hostility once existed between God and us (see Romans 5:10). • Reconciliation restores fellowship so completely that we are free to rejoice in God Himself. Jesus Christ: The Mediator of Reconciliation Romans 5:11 centers everything on “our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.” • He is the exclusive channel—“through whom.” No alternative route exists (John 14:6). • The reconciliation is already “received,” a finished gift, not a future hope we must earn (Ephesians 2:8-9). • His role unites both sides: God’s holy justice is satisfied, and repentant sinners are welcomed (1 Timothy 2:5-6). How He Achieved It • His death removed the barrier of sin (Romans 5:10; Colossians 1:20). • His resurrection guarantees the ongoing life of the reconciled relationship (Romans 5:9; Hebrews 7:25). • His shed blood makes peace possible “once for all” (Hebrews 9:14; 1 Peter 3:18). The Overflow: Rejoicing in God • Reconciliation is not merely legal; it is relational—“we…rejoice in God.” • Joy springs from restored intimacy (Psalm 16:11; Philippians 4:4). • Worship becomes the natural response of hearts no longer estranged. Echoes Across Scripture • 2 Corinthians 5:18-19—God “reconciled us to Himself through Christ.” • Ephesians 2:13-18—“He Himself is our peace,” uniting Jew and Gentile to God and to each other. • Colossians 1:21-22—Once alienated, now “reconciled by His physical body through death.” These passages mirror Romans 5:11, underscoring that Jesus alone effects reconciliation. Practical Takeaways • Rest—reconciliation is complete; nothing remains to be added. • Rejoice—delight in God, not merely in His gifts. • Reflect—extend the reconciling love you have received to others (Matthew 5:23-24; Romans 12:18). |
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