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).
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.
Looking Unto Jesus
By J.C. Ryle7Faith 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.
The Cleansing of the Leper
By Peter Brandon756:07Transformation 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.
Of Propitiation, Atonement, and Reconciliation, as Ascribed to Christ.
By John Gill4AtonementReconciliationZEC 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.
Major Ian Thomas' Testimony
By Major Ian Thomas2Living 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.
Of Christ, the Mediator of the Covenant.
By John Gill1ReconciliationMediation of ChristJHN 3:16ACT 20:28ROM 5:102CO 5:19EPH 2:18COL 1:211TI 2:5HEB 8:6HEB 9:15HEB 12:24John Gill expounds on Christ as the Mediator of the Covenant, emphasizing His unique role in reconciling God and humanity. He explains that Christ, being both fully divine and fully human, is the only suitable mediator who can bridge the gap caused by sin. Gill highlights that Christ's mediation involves not only intercession but also the satisfaction of divine justice through His sacrifice. He asserts that this reconciliation restores the relationship between God and the elect, who were once alienated due to sin. Ultimately, Gill underscores the necessity of Christ's dual nature for His mediatorial work, affirming that He is the sole mediator for both Jews and Gentiles.
Paul's Testimony About Salvation
By A.B. Simpson1SalvationReconciliationISA 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.
Men Naturally Are God’s Enemies
By Jonathan Edwards1PSA 50:21HOS 13:2JHN 6:15JHN 8:34ROM 5:10Jonathan Edwards preaches about the natural enmity of men towards God, emphasizing that all natural men are God's enemies due to their low esteem, aversion, and opposition to God in their judgments, wills, affections, and practices. Edwards explains that the hope of glory and the sure ground of salvation through Christ's death are the only means to overcome this enmity. He addresses objections about not feeling this enmity, attributing it to a lack of self-awareness, atheistic tendencies, and fear. Edwards also highlights the importance of God's restraining grace in keeping humanity from the depths of sin and wickedness.
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.
What Battle?
By Ray Comfort0MAT 9:37MRK 16:15ACT 1:8ROM 5:10ROM 8:71CO 9:16COL 1:212TI 4:2JAS 4:4Ray Comfort preaches about the importance of true Christianity being like a battleship stationed at the gates of Hell, emphasizing the need for believers to actively engage in spiritual warfare and evangelism. He highlights the spiritual deadness of those who are not born again, contrasting them with the call for believers to be bold witnesses for Christ. Comfort challenges the modern Church to move from a passive, divided state to a zealous, unified body that actively shares the Gospel and fulfills the Great Commission.
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.
The Teaching of Saint Paul
By Olin Alfred Curtis0ROM 3:25ROM 5:102CO 5:21PHP 3:201TH 4:14TIT 2:13Olin Alfred Curtis delves into the comprehensive plan of biblical theology, emphasizing the importance of starting with the Old Testament and studying the New Testament through the lens of the Epistle to the Hebrews. He highlights the centrality of Saint Paul's teachings, particularly focusing on the significance of Christ's death as the core of Paul's gospel message. Curtis explores the concept of Christ being made a sinner on our behalf, emphasizing the substitutional nature of His death and how it reconciles humanity to God. He also delves into the deep theological implications of Christ's death as a propitiation, emphasizing the harmonization of God's justice and love through the sacrificial death of Jesus.
The Naked Truth Laid Open
By John Toldervy0ROM 5:10ROM 9:31ROM 10:8GAL 3:11HEB 7:28John Toldervy preaches about the importance of seeking the true faith and the Word of Truth that sets free, emphasizing the need to be led by the Spirit and not by works of the Law. He reflects on his journey of seeking God through various teachings and traditions until finding redemption and peace in the light of Christ. Toldervy acknowledges his past mistakes, the vanity of preaching without the Spirit, and the need for true obedience and faith in Christ for salvation and regeneration.
The Necessity of Christ's Making Satisfaction for Sin, Proved and Confirmed.
By John Gill0AtonementSalvationEXO 34:7MAT 16:21LUK 24:26JHN 3:16ROM 5:102CO 5:18EPH 1:7HEB 2:10HEB 9:221PE 3:18John Gill preaches on the necessity of Christ's satisfaction for sin, emphasizing that it was essential for the salvation of sinners and the fulfillment of God's justice. He explains that Christ, being made lower than the angels, suffered and died to make atonement for humanity's sins, which was necessary for reconciliation with God. Gill argues that without this satisfaction, there can be no forgiveness or salvation, as God's justice demands that sin be punished. He highlights the importance of understanding this doctrine as central to the Christian faith, warning against those who deny it. Ultimately, Gill calls for admiration of God's wisdom and justice in the plan of salvation through Christ's sacrifice.
Homily 39 on Matthew
By St. John Chrysostom0HOS 6:6MAT 12:1MAT 12:5MAT 12:7MRK 2:27LUK 6:36ROM 5:101CO 5:8John Chrysostom preaches on Jesus breaking the Sabbath to teach important lessons, defending His disciples' actions by citing David's example and the priests' actions in the temple. Chrysostom emphasizes the importance of understanding the spirit of the law over legalistic observance, pointing out that the Sabbath was made for man's benefit. He encourages believers to focus on spiritual rest, refrain from evil, and strive for continuous spiritual growth, reminding them that the Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath. Chrysostom urges his audience to emulate the examples of those who go above and beyond in their faith and good works, highlighting the ease of following Christ's teachings with dedication and vigilance.
Homily 9 on Romans
By St. John Chrysostom0ROM 4:23ROM 5:1ROM 5:5ROM 5:8ROM 5:10John Chrysostom preaches on the profound love and sacrifice of God, emphasizing that Christ died for sinners and enemies, demonstrating the immense depth of God's love for humanity. He highlights the importance of faith and justification through Christ's blood, leading to reconciliation and salvation from wrath. Chrysostom encourages believers to find joy in God through Jesus Christ, reflecting on the atonement received and the overflowing love of God shed abroad in our hearts through the Holy Spirit.
2 Corinthians Chapter 6 Paul's Testimony About Salvation
By A.B. Simpson0New CreationReconciliationISA 55:6JHN 3:3ROM 3:23ROM 5:102CO 5:172CO 6:2EPH 2:81JN 1:9A.B. Simpson emphasizes Paul's testimony in 2 Corinthians 6 about the transformative power of salvation, highlighting that through Christ, believers become new creations, reconciled to God. He explains that this reconciliation involves revelation, propitiation, and justification, underscoring the necessity of a new heart and the role of believers as ambassadors for Christ. Simpson urges listeners to recognize their responsibility in accepting God's grace and the urgency of responding to His call for reconciliation. The sermon illustrates the profound love of God and the simplicity of coming to Him for salvation.
- 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).