Romans 5:10
Verse
Context
Christ’s Sacrifice for the Ungodly
9Therefore, since we have now been justified by His blood, how much more shall we be saved from wrath through Him!10For if, when we were enemies of God, we were reconciled to Him through the death of His Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through His life!11Not only that, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.
Sermons





Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For if, when we were enemies - See under Rom 5:6 (note). We were reconciled - The enmity existing before rendered the reconciliation necessary. In every human heart there is a measure of enmity to holiness, and, consequently to the author of it. Men seldom suspect this; for one property of sin is to blind the understanding, so that men do not know their own state. We shall be saved by his life - 1. For, as he died for our sins, so he rose again for our justification; and his resurrection to life, is the grand proof that he has accomplished whatever he had purposed in reference to the salvation of man. 2. This may be also understood of his life of intercession: for it is written. He ever Liveth to make Intercession for us, Heb 7:25. Through this life of intercession at the right hand of God we are spared and blessed. 3. And it will not be amiss to consider that, as our salvation implies the renovation of our nature, and our being restored to the image of God, so, σωθησομεθα εν τη ζωνυτου, may be rendered: we shall be saved In his life; for, I suppose, it is pretty generally agreed, that the life of God in the soul of man is essential to its salvation. 4. The example also of the life of Christ is a means of salvation. He hath left us an example that we should follow his steps: and he that followeth him, shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of Life, Joh 8:12.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being now--"having now been" reconciled, we shall be saved by his life--that is "If that part of the Saviour's work which cost Him His blood, and which had to be wrought for persons incapable of the least sympathy either with His love or His labors in their behalf--even our 'justification,' our 'reconciliation'--is already completed; how much more will He do all that remains to be done, since He has it to do, not by death agonies any more, but in untroubled 'life,' and no longer for enemies, but for friends--from whom, at every stage of it, He receives the grateful response of redeemed and adoring souls?" To be "saved from wrath through Him," denotes here the whole work of Christ towards believers, from the moment of justification, when the wrath of God is turned away from them, till the Judge on the great white throne shall discharge that wrath upon them that "obey not the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ"; and that work may all be summed up in "keeping them from falling, and presenting them faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy" (Jde 1:24): thus are they "saved from wrath through Him."
John Gill Bible Commentary
For if when we were enemies,.... For the further illustration of the love of God expressed to sinners, by the death of his Son, the state and condition God's elect were in when Christ died for them is taken notice of; they "were enemies"; to God, to his being, perfections, purposes, and providences; to Christ, to his person, offices, grace, and righteousness; to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit, and his divine operations and influences; to the people of God, and to the Gospel and ordinances of Christ; which enmity is deeply rooted in their minds, is causeless, and undeserved, and is implacable, and irreconcileable without the power and grace of God; which grace of God is wonderfully displayed in the reconciliation of such persons, by the death of his Son. Reconciliation implies a former state of friendship, a breach of that friendship, and a making of it up again; which no ways contradicts the everlasting and unchangeable love of God to his people; for this is not a reconciliation of God to them, but of them to God: we were reconciled to God; not God to us; and this reconciliation is for their sins, an atonement for them, rather than of their persons; which being done, their persons are reconciled, not to the love, grace, and mercy of God, or to his affections, in which they always had a share, but to the justice of God injured and offended by their sins; and so both justice and holiness on one side, and love, grace, and mercy on the other, are reconciled together, in the business of their salvation; which is brought about by the sufferings and death of Christ: this expresses the wonderful love of God, since this reconciliation arises purely from himself; the scheme of it is of his own contriving; he, whose justice was affronted, and whose law was broken, took the first step towards it, and conducted the whole affair; and which was effected at the expense of the blood and life of his own Son, and that for persons who were enemies to them both. In consequence of this, another reconciliation of them is made by the Spirit of God in regenerations, of which notice is taken in this passage: much more being reconciled: to God, as a sovereign God, in his decrees, in his providences, and in the method of salvation by his Son; to Christ, to the way of salvation by him, so as to submit both to his righteousness for justification, and to the sceptre of his kingdom, to be ruled and governed by it; to the Spirit, so as to be led by him, to walk after him, and to depend upon him for the carrying on, and finishing the good work of grace begun in them; to the people of God, so as to love them, and delight in their company; and to the Gospel and ordinances, so as highly to value them, long after them, and take pleasure in them. Now from both these reconciliations is inferred the sure and certain salvation of persons so reconciled: we shall be saved by his life; by the life of Christ, and which designs not so much his life as God; or his living in the hearts of his people by faith; though neither of them are to be excluded; but his life, as man, and that not either his private or public life, as man here on earth, though this has an influence upon, and a concern in the business of salvation; but more especially here is meant the interceding life of Christ in heaven, where he lives, and ever lives to make intercession for his people, and to see the salvation he has obtained by his death applied unto them, and they put into the possession of it.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
5:10 saved through the life of his Son: Believers already share in the new life that Christ provided through his resurrection (6:11). Through this vital connection with Christ, believers will also be spared from God’s wrath in the last day (see also Col 3:4).
Romans 5:10
Christ’s Sacrifice for the Ungodly
9Therefore, since we have now been justified by His blood, how much more shall we be saved from wrath through Him!10For if, when we were enemies of God, we were reconciled to Him through the death of His Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through His life!11Not only that, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
God Helps Those Who Cannot Help Themselves by Jeff Nobit
By Jeff Noblit1.6K46:33ISA 64:6JER 17:9JHN 3:18ROM 5:6ROM 5:10ROM 8:31EPH 1:6This sermon delves into the profound truths of God's holiness, man's sinful nature, and the helpless state of humanity apart from Christ. It emphasizes the ungodliness, sinfulness, enmity, and helplessness of individuals before a holy God, highlighting the desperate need for God's intervention and salvation. Through the lens of Romans 5:6-10, the message reveals the depth of God's love in reaching out to the ungodly, sinners, enemies, and helpless ones through the sacrificial death of Christ, showcasing the incomprehensible grace and mercy of God in saving unworthy souls.
(Following the Footsteps of Christ) Reconcilation
By Willie Mullan1.4K1:05:00ReconciliationPSA 104:5MAT 19:6JHN 19:3ROM 5:101CO 7:10EPH 5:33In the video, the preacher mentions various topics that have been covered in previous sermons, such as redemption, atonement, and the Lord's words for the resurrection. He then introduces the topic of demonology as a mighty subject. The preacher also discusses the three New Testament aspects of reconciliation, referring to Romans chapter five. He emphasizes that regardless of one's background or beliefs, everyone can experience the same blessedness by being in Christ and becoming a new creation.
Keep Your Heart With All Diligence
By Hans R. Waldvogel1.3K27:47Keeping YourselfPRO 4:23ISA 26:3MAT 24:44ACT 17:30ROM 5:10ROM 7:182CO 6:17PHP 1:6In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being mindful of our thoughts and words, as they are recorded and will be proclaimed in eternity. The preacher highlights the need to surrender our hearts to God, who is the keeper of our hearts and can bring perfect peace. The sermon also emphasizes the power of God's word and the importance of guarding our hearts against impure thoughts. The preacher uses the analogy of a garden to illustrate the need for careful attention to the condition of our hearts, as they can be filled with negative influences that lead to death.
Living Like Christ Lived (Kannada)
By Zac Poonen1.1K58:10PRO 3:5JHN 16:14JHN 17:3JHN 21:25ROM 5:101CO 13:11GAL 5:22EPH 4:15HEB 5:12JUD 1:3This sermon emphasizes the importance of moving beyond a focus solely on Christ's death on the cross to also understanding and embodying His life on earth. It highlights the need to be led by the Holy Spirit to live a Christ-like life, showing love, humility, and patience in all situations. The speaker encourages believers to grow beyond being spiritual babies, to be mature and loving individuals who reflect Jesus in their daily interactions.
Jesus' Death Reconciles-Jesus' Life Saves (Romans 5:10)
By Ernest O'Neill70228:38MAT 16:24JHN 12:24ROM 5:10ROM 6:42CO 5:17GAL 2:20PHP 3:10In this sermon, the speaker shares his personal experience of coming to faith in God at a young age. He emphasizes that the Christian life is not one of defeat, but rather a life of victory and real transformation. The speaker highlights the importance of living out one's faith and not just talking about it. He references Romans 5:10, which speaks about being reconciled to God through the death of Jesus and being saved by his life. The speaker encourages believers to truly embrace this truth and allow Jesus' life to flow through them.
Here We Stand - Concerning the Death of Christ and Man's Salvation
By J. Glyn Owen4871:03:36SalvationMAT 11:28ACT 20:21ROM 5:101CO 1:231CO 2:2EPH 2:81PE 2:24The sermon transcript emphasizes the centrality of the death of Jesus Christ in the New Testament and in the minds of the evangelists. The speaker highlights the importance of the cross and the death of Jesus throughout the Scriptures. The sermon also mentions Paul's words in Galatians 6:14, where he expresses his humility and refusal to boast except in the cross of Christ. The sermon concludes by discussing how Jesus himself appointed symbols, such as the Lord's Supper, to remind the Christian church of his death.
The Cappacino Church of America - e.a. Johnston
By From the Pulpit & Classic Sermons32622:44RadioEZK 6:7EZK 6:9MAT 5:13MAT 16:24JHN 6:60ROM 5:10HEB 12:14In this sermon, E.A. Johnston addresses the decline of spirituality in churches and the rise of immorality in society. He criticizes the pulpits for allowing the world into the church and cheapening the gospel message in an attempt to attract more people. Johnston reminisces about a time when churches were places of true worship and believers gathered to pray and seek God's presence. He emphasizes the need for repentance and reconciliation with God, highlighting the absence of these teachings in many churches today.
The Scarlet Thread of Redemption
By Major Ian Thomas1040:18Dependence on ChristRedemptionLEV 17:11JHN 1:4ROM 5:10ROM 11:361CO 5:72CO 5:14GAL 2:20PHP 1:11COL 1:27HEB 9:22Major Ian Thomas emphasizes the concept of redemption through the metaphor of a lamp, illustrating that while we are created with a body and soul, we cannot produce righteousness on our own. He explains that true functionality comes from receiving the life of Christ within us, which enables us to shine with His light. Thomas highlights the importance of both the death and life of Christ, stating that while His death reconciles us, it is His life that saves us and empowers us to live righteously. He warns against the danger of being a 'carnal Christian,' relying on our own efforts rather than allowing Christ to live through us. Ultimately, the sermon underscores the necessity of repentance and dependence on Christ for true sanctification and functionality in our Christian walk.
God's Message to Dead Men
By Major Ian Thomas858:21SalvationSpiritual LifeJHN 3:16ROM 5:102CO 5:142CO 13:5GAL 2:20EPH 2:1COL 1:27TIT 3:51PE 1:31JN 5:12Major Ian Thomas delivers a powerful sermon titled 'God's Message to Dead Men,' emphasizing that all humanity is spiritually dead due to Adam's sin, and that Christ's death was necessary to restore life to those who accept Him. He explains that the gospel is not merely about forgiveness but about receiving the very life of Christ through the Holy Spirit, transforming believers from death to life. Thomas highlights the importance of recognizing our spiritual condition and the necessity of faith in Christ for true salvation, illustrating this with the story of Cornelius, a good man who needed to be saved. The sermon calls for self-examination and a genuine relationship with Christ, urging listeners to embrace the life that comes from Him.
The Cleansing of the Leper
By Peter Brandon656:07Transformation in ChristReconciliation with GodISA 53:5JHN 3:17ROM 5:102CO 5:17EPH 2:8REV 3:20Peter Brandon preaches on 'The Cleansing of the Leper,' emphasizing that true transformation comes from being in Christ, who makes us new creations through the Holy Spirit. He illustrates how people often cling to worldly things, much like a child with a beloved teddy bear, unaware of the greater joy found in Christ. Brandon explains that God reconciles us to Himself through Jesus, who bore our sins, and calls us to respond by opening our hearts to Him for communion. He warns against spiritual lukewarmness and encourages believers to seek a deeper relationship with Christ, who desires to share in our lives. The sermon concludes with a call to repentance and trust in Jesus for salvation and transformation.
Paul's Testimony About Salvation
By A.B. Simpson0SalvationReconciliationISA 55:6JHN 3:3ROM 3:23ROM 5:102CO 5:172CO 6:2EPH 2:81JN 1:9A.B. Simpson emphasizes the transformative power of salvation in his sermon 'Paul's Testimony About Salvation,' focusing on the necessity of being a new creation in Christ. He explains that true reconciliation with God is essential for spiritual renewal, highlighting that humanity cannot improve itself but must undergo a divine revolution through Christ. Simpson outlines the process of reconciliation, which includes revelation, propitiation, and justification, and stresses the importance of human agency in sharing this message of salvation. He calls on listeners to respond to God's grace and accept the gift of reconciliation, urging them to act now before it's too late.
Reconciled to God by Jesus Christ
By G.W. North0Divine LoveReconciliationISA 53:5JHN 3:16ROM 5:8ROM 5:102CO 5:182CO 5:21GAL 2:20EPH 2:13COL 1:201JN 4:19G.W. North emphasizes the profound love of God that reconciles humanity to Himself through Jesus Christ, highlighting that even in our ungodliness and spiritual weakness, God loved us and initiated reconciliation. He explains that this divine love enables us to love one another, lifting our earthly relationships into a heavenly realm. North reflects on the original state of humanity, where love was the natural condition before the fall, and how Christ's sacrifice restores that communion with God. The sermon underscores that through Christ, we are brought back to a state of sinless love, allowing us to live in harmony with God and each other. Ultimately, reconciliation is portrayed as a restoration to the primal state of love that existed before sin entered the world.
The Testimony of Union
By G.W. North0RedemptionCommunion with GodMAT 26:26LUK 22:19JHN 14:6ROM 5:101CO 1:92CO 5:18EPH 2:13COL 1:20HEB 10:191JN 1:3G.W. North explores the paradox of how breaking, which symbolizes disunion, serves as the testimony of union with God. He emphasizes that the mystery of redemption is rooted in the act of making common, allowing humanity to enter into the divine communion that was previously unbroken. Through the sacrifice of Jesus, who became the way and the door, a breach was created that enables us to experience God's fellowship. This act of breaking was essential for the plan of salvation, as it allowed for the restoration of communion between God and man. Ultimately, believers are called into the fellowship of His Son, Jesus Christ.
Union With God
By G.W. North0ReconciliationUnion with GodJHN 1:14JHN 14:20ROM 5:101CO 10:162CO 5:21GAL 2:20EPH 2:13COL 1:20HEB 10:41PE 2:24G.W. North emphasizes the significance of union with God, tracing the concept of reconciliation from the Trinity's eternal counsel to its manifestation in Christ Jesus. He explains that the Old Testament sacrificial system symbolized God's covering of sin until the ultimate sacrifice was made by Jesus, who bore humanity's sin and established righteousness. This union is not only a theological concept but is made real through the work of the Holy Spirit and is expressed in the act of Communion. North highlights that this divine union is rooted in the oneness of the Trinity and is essential for believers to experience true reconciliation with God.
Gospel Ministers Ambassadors for Christ
By Charles Finney0AmbassadorshipReconciliationISA 53:5LUK 15:10JHN 3:16ROM 5:102CO 5:20EPH 2:8COL 1:21JAS 4:72PE 3:91JN 1:9Charles Finney emphasizes that gospel ministers are ambassadors for Christ, tasked with the divine mission of reconciling sinners to God. He explains that being an ambassador means representing God's will and offering free pardon to those who submit to Him. Finney highlights the necessity of reconciliation, pointing out that sinners are in opposition to God and must recognize their need for His grace. He urges individuals to yield to God, as it is both right and safe, and stresses that God earnestly seeks peace with humanity despite being the offended party. The sermon concludes with a call for personal decision-making regarding one's relationship with God, emphasizing the urgency of accepting His invitation to reconciliation.
Christ Himself the Content of Christian Faith
By Major Ian Thomas0The Life of ChristRegenerationROM 5:10PHP 2:131TH 5:24TIT 3:5Major Ian Thomas emphasizes that Christianity transcends mere religion or ethics, as it is fundamentally centered on Christ Himself, who is the essence of the Christian faith. He explains that Christ's death reconciles us to God, while His life continually saves and empowers us through the Holy Spirit. This dynamic relationship with Christ is what enables believers to live out their faith actively and meaningfully. Thomas highlights that the presence of the Holy Spirit signifies regeneration and new birth, allowing Christians to experience divine action in their lives. Ultimately, it is Christ who fulfills all the demands of faith and life.
Major Ian Thomas' Testimony
By Major Ian Thomas0Living in ChristSurrender to GodMAT 11:28JHN 14:6JHN 15:5ROM 5:102CO 5:17GAL 2:20EPH 3:20PHP 1:21COL 3:41JN 4:4Major Ian Thomas shares his testimony of spiritual exhaustion and despair at the age of nineteen, where he realized that despite his sincere efforts to serve God, he was failing because he was trying to live for Christ instead of allowing Christ to live through him. In a moment of surrender, he understood that Christ is his life and strength, leading to a transformative experience where he began to see God work through him in ways he had never imagined. This shift from self-reliance to reliance on Christ resulted in a fruitful ministry, where he witnessed many conversions and a newfound joy in his Christian life. Thomas emphasizes that true Christian living comes from recognizing and accepting Christ as the source of life and strength, rather than attempting to fulfill God's work through one's own efforts.
The Place of Our Reconciliation With God.
By Watchman Nee0The CrossReconciliationISA 53:5MRK 15:34JHN 3:16ROM 5:102CO 5:18GAL 2:20EPH 2:13COL 1:21HEB 9:281PE 2:24Watchman Nee emphasizes that sin creates a separation from God, a truth that must be understood both theoretically and experientially. He reflects on Christ's cry from the Cross, illustrating the profound spiritual separation He endured to reconcile humanity with God. This unique aspect of Christ's death highlights the necessity of recognizing our ongoing need for His atoning sacrifice, even after becoming Christians. Nee urges believers to embrace the spirit of the Cross, allowing its transformative power to shape their lives and deepen their love for Christ. Ultimately, he calls for a personal relationship with the death of Jesus to fully appreciate the beauty of grace.
Of Communion With God.
By John Gill0Fellowship with the TrinityCommunion with GodPSA 90:1ISA 54:5LAM 3:24JHN 17:21ROM 5:10EPH 2:22PHP 4:191JN 1:31JN 3:11JN 4:13John Gill emphasizes that communion with God is the pinnacle of the Christian experience, representing the closest relationship believers can have with the divine in this life. He explains that this communion is rooted in the union between God and His people, established through Christ and the Holy Spirit, and is characterized by mutual indwelling, walking together, and conversing with God. Gill highlights that only those who are redeemed, regenerated, and sanctified can enjoy this fellowship, which is a profound blessing and a source of joy and strength. He further elaborates on the special communion believers have with the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, underscoring the honor and value of such a relationship. Ultimately, Gill portrays this communion as a foretaste of heavenly bliss, making it a vital aspect of the believer's life.
Of Propitiation, Atonement, and Reconciliation, as Ascribed to Christ.
By John Gill0AtonementReconciliationZEC 13:7JHN 3:16ROM 3:25ROM 5:8ROM 5:102CO 5:18EPH 2:16COL 1:20HEB 2:171JN 2:2John Gill expounds on the concepts of propitiation, atonement, and reconciliation as they relate to Christ, emphasizing that while the term 'satisfaction' is not explicitly used in Scripture, its essence is captured in these terms. He explains that Christ serves as the propitiation for our sins, satisfying God's justice and reconciling humanity to Him through His sacrificial death. Gill highlights that reconciliation is initiated by God and accomplished through Christ, who intercedes on behalf of sinners, transforming them from enemies to friends of God. The sermon underscores the necessity of Christ's sacrifice for the restoration of the relationship between God and humanity, illustrating the profound implications of His atoning work. Ultimately, Gill affirms that reconciliation is not about changing God's love but about addressing the justice that sin demands.
The Unity of All Things
By A.W. Tozer0RedemptionUnity in ChristROM 5:102CO 5:18EPH 1:10COL 1:20REV 21:5A.W. Tozer emphasizes the ultimate goal of Christ's redemptive work, which is to expel sin, the source of division in the universe, leading to the unification of all creation. He explains that while humans experience time linearly, God exists outside of time, where history and prophecy converge in His eternal presence. Tozer highlights that sin has caused separation and diversity, but through faith in God's character, believers can trust in the promise of reconciliation. The unity of all things is a profound biblical truth, as Paul affirms that God will reconcile all things to Himself, both in heaven and on earth.
Faith Must Be Restored
By A.W. Tozer0Restoration of FaithTrust in GodPSA 34:18ISA 53:5MAT 7:7JHN 14:6ROM 5:102CO 5:18EPH 2:8HEB 11:6JAS 4:81JN 1:9A.W. Tozer emphasizes the critical need for restoring faith, illustrating how alienation from God mirrors the breakdown of trust in human relationships. He points out that many people do not openly express their lack of confidence in God, yet their actions often reflect a deep-seated unbelief. Tozer reassures that Christianity offers a path back to faith, highlighting that coming to God requires belief in His character and His willingness to reward those who seek Him. He reminds us that God took on our wrongs to facilitate our salvation, underscoring the depth of His love and grace.
Looking Unto Jesus
By J.C. Ryle0Faith in ChristPractical ChristianityISA 53:6JHN 13:15ACT 1:11ROM 5:10ROM 8:341CO 11:1PHP 3:20HEB 7:25HEB 12:21JN 2:6J.C. Ryle emphasizes the importance of 'Looking Unto Jesus' as the foundation of a vibrant and practical Christianity. He argues that true faith must extend beyond mere Sunday observance and should permeate every aspect of daily life, providing strength, peace, and guidance through Christ's death, intercession, example, and anticipated return. Ryle highlights that a genuine relationship with Jesus is essential for overcoming life's challenges and achieving spiritual growth. He encourages believers to focus on Christ as their source of hope and to emulate His life as a model for their own. Ultimately, Ryle calls for a return to the simplicity and sincerity of early Christianity, centered on the person of Jesus.
Darkness Pursuing the Sinner.
By Horatius Bonar0Enmity Against GodConsequences of SinNAM 1:8JHN 3:19ROM 5:10Horatius Bonar delivers a powerful sermon on Nahum 1:8, emphasizing that darkness pursues those who are enemies of God, as exemplified by Nineveh and Assyria. He describes the sinner as a hater and injurer of God, highlighting the seriousness of enmity against the Creator. Bonar warns that God's patience has limits, and those who reject His light will face the darkness of despair and punishment, both in this life and eternally. The darkness is not merely a lack of light but a profound absence of life and joy, relentlessly pursuing the sinner. Ultimately, Bonar calls for reflection on the consequences of being an enemy of God and the certainty of divine judgment.
The Great Giver
By A.W. Pink0God's ProvisionDivine LoveHOS 11:8ZEC 13:7MAT 6:30MAT 7:11MAT 11:28ROM 5:10ROM 8:322CO 9:8PHP 4:191JN 1:9A.W. Pink emphasizes the profound love of God demonstrated through the sacrifice of His Son, Jesus Christ, as a guarantee for all other blessings. He explains that if God did not spare His own Son, He will surely provide for our needs, highlighting the divine logic that assures believers of God's generosity. Pink reflects on the costly nature of this sacrifice, the gracious design behind it, and the comforting promise that God will freely give us all things. He encourages believers to trust in God's provision, reminding them that His gifts are given freely and without obligation. Ultimately, Pink reassures that God's love and willingness to give are unwavering, providing comfort and hope to the faithful.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For if, when we were enemies - See under Rom 5:6 (note). We were reconciled - The enmity existing before rendered the reconciliation necessary. In every human heart there is a measure of enmity to holiness, and, consequently to the author of it. Men seldom suspect this; for one property of sin is to blind the understanding, so that men do not know their own state. We shall be saved by his life - 1. For, as he died for our sins, so he rose again for our justification; and his resurrection to life, is the grand proof that he has accomplished whatever he had purposed in reference to the salvation of man. 2. This may be also understood of his life of intercession: for it is written. He ever Liveth to make Intercession for us, Heb 7:25. Through this life of intercession at the right hand of God we are spared and blessed. 3. And it will not be amiss to consider that, as our salvation implies the renovation of our nature, and our being restored to the image of God, so, σωθησομεθα εν τη ζωνυτου, may be rendered: we shall be saved In his life; for, I suppose, it is pretty generally agreed, that the life of God in the soul of man is essential to its salvation. 4. The example also of the life of Christ is a means of salvation. He hath left us an example that we should follow his steps: and he that followeth him, shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of Life, Joh 8:12.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being now--"having now been" reconciled, we shall be saved by his life--that is "If that part of the Saviour's work which cost Him His blood, and which had to be wrought for persons incapable of the least sympathy either with His love or His labors in their behalf--even our 'justification,' our 'reconciliation'--is already completed; how much more will He do all that remains to be done, since He has it to do, not by death agonies any more, but in untroubled 'life,' and no longer for enemies, but for friends--from whom, at every stage of it, He receives the grateful response of redeemed and adoring souls?" To be "saved from wrath through Him," denotes here the whole work of Christ towards believers, from the moment of justification, when the wrath of God is turned away from them, till the Judge on the great white throne shall discharge that wrath upon them that "obey not the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ"; and that work may all be summed up in "keeping them from falling, and presenting them faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy" (Jde 1:24): thus are they "saved from wrath through Him."
John Gill Bible Commentary
For if when we were enemies,.... For the further illustration of the love of God expressed to sinners, by the death of his Son, the state and condition God's elect were in when Christ died for them is taken notice of; they "were enemies"; to God, to his being, perfections, purposes, and providences; to Christ, to his person, offices, grace, and righteousness; to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit, and his divine operations and influences; to the people of God, and to the Gospel and ordinances of Christ; which enmity is deeply rooted in their minds, is causeless, and undeserved, and is implacable, and irreconcileable without the power and grace of God; which grace of God is wonderfully displayed in the reconciliation of such persons, by the death of his Son. Reconciliation implies a former state of friendship, a breach of that friendship, and a making of it up again; which no ways contradicts the everlasting and unchangeable love of God to his people; for this is not a reconciliation of God to them, but of them to God: we were reconciled to God; not God to us; and this reconciliation is for their sins, an atonement for them, rather than of their persons; which being done, their persons are reconciled, not to the love, grace, and mercy of God, or to his affections, in which they always had a share, but to the justice of God injured and offended by their sins; and so both justice and holiness on one side, and love, grace, and mercy on the other, are reconciled together, in the business of their salvation; which is brought about by the sufferings and death of Christ: this expresses the wonderful love of God, since this reconciliation arises purely from himself; the scheme of it is of his own contriving; he, whose justice was affronted, and whose law was broken, took the first step towards it, and conducted the whole affair; and which was effected at the expense of the blood and life of his own Son, and that for persons who were enemies to them both. In consequence of this, another reconciliation of them is made by the Spirit of God in regenerations, of which notice is taken in this passage: much more being reconciled: to God, as a sovereign God, in his decrees, in his providences, and in the method of salvation by his Son; to Christ, to the way of salvation by him, so as to submit both to his righteousness for justification, and to the sceptre of his kingdom, to be ruled and governed by it; to the Spirit, so as to be led by him, to walk after him, and to depend upon him for the carrying on, and finishing the good work of grace begun in them; to the people of God, so as to love them, and delight in their company; and to the Gospel and ordinances, so as highly to value them, long after them, and take pleasure in them. Now from both these reconciliations is inferred the sure and certain salvation of persons so reconciled: we shall be saved by his life; by the life of Christ, and which designs not so much his life as God; or his living in the hearts of his people by faith; though neither of them are to be excluded; but his life, as man, and that not either his private or public life, as man here on earth, though this has an influence upon, and a concern in the business of salvation; but more especially here is meant the interceding life of Christ in heaven, where he lives, and ever lives to make intercession for his people, and to see the salvation he has obtained by his death applied unto them, and they put into the possession of it.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
5:10 saved through the life of his Son: Believers already share in the new life that Christ provided through his resurrection (6:11). Through this vital connection with Christ, believers will also be spared from God’s wrath in the last day (see also Col 3:4).