And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation, 2 Corinthians 5:18.
The all things referred to are all aspects of the wonderful change that Paul has been writing about in the previous verses. The new creation experienced by all those in Christ, proceeds from God alone. It is His work and it results in reconciliation between Himself and His elect.
The meaning of reconciliation in the Scriptures needs to be pondered for it is a term highjacked by the ecumenist. The meaning he invariably puts on it is that of reconciliation between men. It is set in an earthly context. The Bible, when speaking of reconciliation is referring to a harmonising of relations between God and man. It is a removal of the enmity that exists between God and man and man returns to favour.
Man is at enmity with a holy God. Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be, Romans 8:7.
God is at enmity with sinful man. Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace, Ephesians 2:15. The expression of God's enmity toward sinful man is seen in the law. There we may view God's anger against sin. For the wages of sin is death, Rom 6:23.
I. RECONCILIATION ORIGINATES WITH GOD
It could not originate with man for he, without the workings of divine grace, is capable of only hatred toward God.
The reaction of Men to Christ, despite every act of mercy on His part, indicates this.
Man may experience and enjoy reconciliation with God but he cannot initiate it.God is the fountain-head of all grace.
How much we owe Him!
II. RECONCILIATION IS ACCOMPLISHED BY JESUS CHRIST
To wit, (because) that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them, - 19.
1. It was through His death. For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life, Romans 5:10.
The death of Christ put away the enmity against us that was contained in the commandments of God. Eph 2:16.
2. Divine justice was satisfied. The sinless substitute died in the place of the guilty. God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them, . . . For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him, 19, 21. Thus our sins are not imputed to us — they are pardoned and we are counted righteous. 2 Tim 4:16. What a blessing, Rom 4:6-8. (Ps 32).
3. It is mutual. We are reconciled to God and He to us. His wrath against our sin is appeased by atonement and our hatred of His person is removed by regeneration. Acts 9:6., 2 Chron 30:8.