Gr. katallagē, “reconciliation.” The verb “to reconcile” is katallassō (see on v. 10). When the KJV was first published, “atonement” signified “reconciliation,” “at-one-ment.” This is the only occurrence of the English “atonement” in the NT of the KJV, though the word is common in the OT. In each of the three other occurrences of the

 Greek word katallagē in the NT it is translated “reconciling,” or “reconciliation” (Rom. 11:15; 2 Cor. 5:18, 19). Paul is referring here, not to the means by which reconciliation was effected (Rom. 3:25), but to the fact of reconciliation (ch. 5:10). The Greek word for the atoning sacrifice is quite different (see on ch. 3:25).

In all the acts and experiences of the Christian life, the mediation of Christ is continually made prominent by the NT writers. We rejoice in God through Jesus Christ, who has revealed to us the true character of His Father and has reconciled us to Him.

 There is no reason for us to glory in ourselves (chs. 3:27; 4:2), but there is every reason why we should glory in God, especially in view of His saving love (Jer. 9:23, 24; Rom. 5:5-10; 1 Cor. 1:31; 2 Cor. 10:17).

The Christian rejoices in the beneficence of God and in the fact that the universe is under God’s administration. The sinner is opposed to God and finds no pleasure in Him. He fears or hates Him. One evidence that we are truly converted and reconciled to God is that we rejoice in Him and find pleasure in the contemplation of His perfection as they are revealed in Scripture.

 Gr. kauchaomai (see on vs. 2, 3).

 Paul mentions another of the results of justification by faith. He has already said that we rejoice in tribulations and in hope of the glory of God (vs. 2, 3). Now he adds that “we also joy in God.”