Reconciliation
Category
Salvation & Redemption
Biblical Definition
The restoration of peace and fellowship between God and sinners through the death of Christ, by which enmity is removed and communion is renewed.
Origin(s)
Greek: καταλλαγή / καταλλάσσω
Transliteration
katallagē; katallassō
Literal meaning
reconciliation; to change from enmity to favor
Key Scripture(s)
Romans 5:10-11; 2 Corinthians 5:18-21; Ephesians 2:13-16; Colossians 1:19-22
Theological Significance
Reconciliation emphasizes the relational result of Christ's saving work. Because sin created real alienation, the gospel does not merely improve human feeling; it truly restores peace with God through the cross.
Common Misunderstanding(s)
Reconciliation is not simply a change in human mood toward God. Scripture presents God as actively reconciling sinners to Himself through Christ's atoning death.
Practical Application
Reconciliation gives believers confidence to draw near to God and calls the church to practice peace, forgiveness, and gospel-shaped restoration with others.