There are Five key words used in the N.T. to describe the richness of salvation in Christ: justification, redemption, forgiveness, reconciliation and adoption.
In justification, the sinner stands before God guilty or condemned, but is declared righteous (Romans 8:33).
In redemption, the sinner stands before God as a slave, but is granted his freedom
(Romans 6:18-22).
In forgiveness, the sinner stands before God as a debtor, but the debt is paid and forgotten (Eph. 1:7).
In reconciliation, the sinner stands before God as an enemy, but becomes His friend (2 Cor. 5:18-20).
In adoption, the sinner stands before God as a stranger, but is made a son (Eph.1:5).
