The Joy of Being Reconciled to God

From the heart of Dr. R. L. Taylor, Th.D., Bible teacher & expositor. Reconciling with God brings profound and lasting joy, stemming from the restoration of a broken relationship and the experience of forgiveness and peace (reconciliation). It's a joy that transcends temporary happiness, offering a deep sense of belonging and intimacy with God. Paul teaches us, “For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by His life” (Romans 5:10). Here the focus is, “while we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son.” The word, “enemies” is the strongest of the synonyms that Paul has used to describe our condition before Christ saved us. We were “helpless” (5:6), which means that we were totally unable to do anything to save ourselves or to help out in the process. We were “ungodly” (5:6) because of our many sins. We were “sinners” (5:8), having violated God’s holy commandments. But worst of all, we were God’s “enemies.” The word “enemies” means active hostility toward God. It’s a deeply seated hatred toward God. Paul describes our hostility toward God, “The mind set on the flesh is hostile toward God; for it does not subject itself to the law of God, for it is not even able to do so” (Romans 8:7). In the Bible, hostility signifies a state of deep-seated hatred, often between groups or individuals. It's more than just dislike or disagreement; it implies a fundamental opposition and conflict. In Romans 8:7, Paul uses the term to describe the relationship between humanity and God! True, many unbelievers might protest and say, “I’m not hostile toward God; I don’t hate Him.” That’s their perspective, not God’s! They show their hostility by their indifference toward His love. In this sense, they are enemies of God. The word “hostile” is the opposite of love. Unbelievers do not love God; they hate Him. He is their enemy. The Bible draws a line: Either you are a God-lover because He has saved you from your sins; or, you’re a God-hater because you do not want Him to rule over you. This was you and me before God reconciled us to Himself! Be encouraged!