Jehovah's Forgiveness - Why We Appreciate It - Conclusion

 Thinking back to the young man mentioned at the outset, how would he feel if a wealthy man offered to pay off all his debts? No doubt, the young man would be moved by deep appreciation to accept that offer. In a similar way, our loving Father, Jehovah has given us a gift that pays for the debt of sin that we have inherited from Adam. Jesus explained it this way: "God so loved the world that he gave his only-begotten Son, so that everyone exercising faith in him might not be destroyed but have everlasting life." (John 3:16) Additionally, this same gift allows us the possibility of establishing relationship with Jehovah. 

How can we benefit from this amazing gift and have our sins, or "debts," forgiven? The answer to that question is found in the Bible's use of such terms as reconciliation, atonement, propitiation, ransom, redemption, and being declared righteous.  In this article, we will discuss the meaning of each of these concepts. As we meditate on these explanations, our appreciation for the basis of Jehovah's forgiveness will grow.

Next time: THE GOAL: RECONCILIATION

From the jw.org publications