Les Feldick Bible Study

Where does Paul give the whole picture of reconciliation even without using the word?

The whole picture of reconciliation appears in Romans chapter 3, even though the word itself is not used there. Paul declares that all have sinned and come short of the glory of God, showing why reconciliation is needed: sin separated man from God, and only God can bridge the gulf.

Les explains that Romans chapter 3 gives the whole picture of reconciliation even though the word reconciliation isn't used as such. The context shows sin entered, man and God were totally separated and alienated, and a great gulf stands between them that must be bridged. Man cannot make reconciliation; God has to, and the Work of the Cross brought reconciliation to man and God. Les says the first step of faith for the lost person is to believe what God says about his condition—that he is a breaker of God's Law and can do nothing pleasing in His sight. The passage states it compactly: all have sinned and come short of the glory of God, a blanket statement overcome only by believing the Gospel.

Romans 3:23

For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;