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The Background of Salvation

in the Epistles (the New Testament books from Romans to Jude). To
see just how often they used this word, scan the first chapter of each
epistle. Sixteen mention grace at the beginning of the letter, and all
except for five (James, 1, 2, and 3 John, and Jude) end with the word
grace. The word in the Epistles often refers to Jesus Christ. He is the most
complete expression of God’s grace. Indeed, it is by His grace that we
are drawn to God.

Consider the story of Tigranes, a king of Armenia, who was captured
by an invading Roman army. The captive king, his wife, and his family
were brought before the victorious Roman general to receive their death
sentence. Tigranes threw himself at the feet of the victor and pleaded for the
lives of his condemned family members. He begged, “Do with me whatever
you will, but spare my wife and family!” The Roman general was so moved
by his plea that he freed the entire family. As Tigranes and his family went
away from the Roman army, the grateful king turned to his wife and asked,
“What did you think of the Roman general?” She answered, “I never saw
him!” Her husband exclaimed, “You were in his presence. Where were your
eyes?” She retorted quickly, “They were set on the one who was willing to
die for me. I saw no one else.” When we consider God’s salvation and the
cross, we see only Jesus, the One who was willing to die for us! The death
of Christ is the greatest expression of God’s grace.

Salvation Proceeds From Christ’s Atoning Work

If we are to understand the nature of salvation, we must consider the
word atonement, which brings to mind the concept of enemies being brought
together to make peace. It refers to
reconciliation—the change from
a state of antagonism to a state
of peace. In salvation, it speaks The word atonement
of the action in which a sinner is
reconciled or brought back to God. brings to mind the
Atonement also means “to cover” concept of enemies
or “to cancel.” Because of Christ’s
sacrificial suffering and death, being brought together
people’s sins are covered over by to make peace.
His blood and the penalty for their
sin is cancelled.

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