Page 21 - TH200 Abundant Life A4 Final

The Background of Salvation

To summarize briefly, it is correct to say that the value of the atonement
is unlimited, but its application is limited to those who respond to God’s
offer. The atoning death of Christ
is sufficient for all, but it is efficient
only for those who believe. As
John made clear in his Gospel, The atoning death of
“God so loved the world that he Christ is sufficient for all,
gave his one and only Son, that
whoever believes in him shall but it is efficient only for
not perish but have eternal life” those who believe.
(3:16). However, as we shall see
in another chapter, each person
must respond to God’s provision.

Salvation Meets Humanity’s Needs

One of the main reasons for studying about salvation is that salvation
meets humanity’s needs. Our responsibility as Christians is to share the
good news with all people. However, if we are to be effective in showing
them how Christ can meet their needs, we must know what their needs are.

Humanity’s Sin

Several things stand out in the Bible concerning the nature of
humanity: our sin and our predicament (or condition). While each of
us has some notion of what sin is, let’s examine what sin involves. First,
sin is failing to live according to the will of God or else openly breaking
the law. However, sin is more than disobedience; it is also the exalting of
self and the belittling of God. Since we are reasoning, thinking creatures,
we know that when we do what we should not or are what we should not
be, we are guilty of sin. Likewise, if we do not do what we should or are
not what we should be, we are guilty of sin.

Every person is a sinner in two ways. First, one is born into sin, and
second, one chooses to do sinful acts. Adam’s sin has been charged to
all people because he was the representative head of the human race
(Romans 5:12). When Adam fell, the race fell, and all people inherited
a sinful nature. This sin nature leads to attitudes of stubbornness
and rebellion toward the law of God. Furthermore, people are also
responsible for their own sinful acts (Galatians 5:19–21).

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