· Bible dictionary

Reconciliation

The restoration of relationship between God and people through the work of Christ — enemies made friends, distance closed.

Reconciliation assumes a breach. Sin made us enemies of God; the cross dealt with the enmity from God's side.

Paul speaks of God reconciling us to himself "through Christ" and entrusting believers with "the ministry of reconciliation."

It overflows horizontally: those reconciled to God become agents of reconciliation toward others, including across deep divides.

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Original BibleDawn entry. Drafted with AI assistance and reviewed for accuracy.