Charles Finney delivers a powerful sermon on the dual nature of the Gospel as both a savor of life and death, emphasizing that God's delight in Christ's atonement is profound and that the full exhibition of Christ's love serves to reveal God's character and desire for humanity's salvation. He argues that the Gospel's impact is inevitable, producing either transformation in those who accept it or hardening in those who reject it, ultimately glorifying God in both outcomes. Finney asserts that God's justice and holiness are honored even in the damnation of the unrepentant, as it demonstrates His unwavering commitment to righteousness and the seriousness of sin. The sermon calls for a deep reflection on the responsibility of individuals in response to the Gospel and the eternal implications of their choices.

Art Katz emphasizes the Apostle Paul's vehement opposition to legalism, particularly in his letter to the Galatians, where he warns against adding the Law to faith in Christ. Paul understood that any attempt to achieve righteousness through the Law contradicts the purpose of Jesus' sacrificial death, which was to condemn the flesh and self-righteousness. His personal encounter with the resurrected Christ on the road to Damascus profoundly shaped his understanding of grace and the necessity of seeing the death of Jesus as a complete atonement for sin. Katz argues that this revelation is crucial for believers today, as any return to self-righteousness undermines the grace of God and the sufficiency of Christ's sacrifice. The sermon calls for a deeper understanding and appropriation of the atonement to avoid making the grace of God ineffective.

A.B. Simpson explores the significance of Abel's sacrifice as a profound type of Christ's atoning death, emphasizing that true faith acknowledges sin and submits to God's plan of mercy. He contrasts Abel's humble obedience and recognition of his need for atonement with Cain's self-righteousness and rejection of God's way, illustrating the eternal consequences of each choice. Simpson highlights Enoch's life as a model of holiness and faith, culminating in his translation as a symbol of the hope awaiting believers. The sermon calls for a deep reflection on our own faith and the necessity of recognizing our sinful state to fully embrace God's grace. Ultimately, it encourages believers to walk with God in faith, obedience, and anticipation of Christ's return.