Jehovah's Forgiveness: Why We Appreciate It

Introduction

• The situation of mankind is likened to a young man inheriting debt rather than wealth due to his parents' actions.
• Similarly, Adam and Eve's sin resulted in humanity inheriting sin and death.

Sins as Debts

• Jesus likens sins to debts, which need to be paid to Jehovah.
• Unpaid sin debts are canceled only through death.

The Need for Help

• On our own, humanity cannot regain what Adam and Eve lost—eternal life and a relationship with Jehovah.
• Jehovah provides a means of forgiveness through Jesus' sacrifice.

Jehovah's Provision

• Jehovah offers help by sending His Son to pay the ransom, allowing forgiveness of sins and potential reconciliation with Him.

Bible Terms for Understanding Jehovah's Forgiveness

• The article explores terms such as reconciliation, atonement, propitiation, ransom, redemption, and being declared righteous.

Reconciliation: The Goal

• Adam and Eve lost their relationship with Jehovah; humanity needs reconciliation.
• Reconciliation means becoming a friend with Jehovah, initiated by Him.

Atonement: The Arrangement

• Atonement is Jehovah's arrangement to restore relations with sinful humans.
• It involves the concept of exchanging one thing for another (propitiation).

Temporary and Permanent Arrangements

• Temporary: Israelites had annual Atonement Day with animal sacrifices.
• Permanent: Jesus' sacrifice as a once-for-all-time payment for sins.

The Ransom: The Price

• Ransom is a price for atonement, needing to be equal to what was lost by Adam.
• Jesus was perfect, capable, and willing to pay this price.

Difference Between Atonement and Ransom

• Atonement is the action to restore relations; the ransom is the price paid.

Redemption and Being Declared Righteous

• Redemption: Being set free from sin and death due to the ransom.
• Being declared righteous: Having sins forgiven, records expunged due to faith in Jesus.
• Benefits extend to those with heavenly and earthly hopes.

Improved Situation

• Our situation improves with faith in Jesus, leading to redemption and reconciliation.
• A good relationship with Jehovah is now possible.

Looking Forward

• Next article will explore the personal meaning of Jehovah's forgiveness for individuals.