Salvation, a simple word in itself, but one of unparalleled importance to our hearts. Salvation has its negative and its positive side. The first comprises the destruction of the enemy, of his power and all its consequences. Grace, in the person of Christ, has taken our place in death under all this: it is “the grace of God that brings salvation” (Tit. 2:11). Thus, Satan’s power, the world, sin, death, wrath, and judgment, are overcome and destroyed for faith in the cross of Christ.

But there is also a positive blessing to be found in this blessed work. “Christ also has once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God” (1 Pet. 3:18). “For through Him we both have access by one Spirit to the Father” (Eph. 2:18).

Infinite blessing! The people have not only escaped, but they have arrived by a new and living way which has brought them to the end, into the presence of God Himself, a God whom we know as the Father. “Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called children of God!” (1 Jn. 3:1). Let us celebrate with Israel, only in a higher key, the song of deliverance! No more separation, or distance; the port is gained, which is God Himself, He whom, by the Spirit, we call “Abba, Father.”

What part did Israel play in all this work—what part did we play? Absolutely none. Salvation is brought to us by the free grace of God who exacts nothing, and who does not claim His rights over us, but who finds His satisfaction in being a sovereign and an eternal Giver.