Ephesians 2:13 But now in Christ Jesus you who sometimes were far off are made near by the blood of Christ. The Atonement is the great fact of the Bible, and Scripture and history alike bear witness to it. 1. The universal practice of sacrifice points to the atonement of Christ, and shows out the moral sentiments of the nations in the dark but distinct consciousness that expiation is necessary before the sinner can approach God. 2. The whole Jewish economy is based upon the principle of sacrifice, and is to be looked upon as a providential preparation for the gospel, in which the sacrifice of the Cross holds such a conspicuous place, and both Testaments unite in declaring that without shedding of blood there is no remission of sins (Hebrews 9:22; Exodus 24:8; Matthew 26:28). Hence the spirit of the Old Testament is realized in the New Testament Victim, offered up upon the cross for the sin of the world. Hence the blood of Christ is presented to our faith as the vindication of Jehovah's love, and the refuge in which our souls may safely await the issues of eternity. (W. Graham, D. D.) Parallel Verses KJV: But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.WEB: But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off are made near in the blood of Christ. |
    |