because He first loved us" (1 John iv. 19). Thus the believer's heart is drawn to God, his
will submits with perfect trust to God's will, not as a slave but as a son. Thus man is reconciled
to God, and the Atonement is accomplished.
Although much else is shrouded in mystery, yet enough is here revealed to enable every one who
wills it to obtain salvation through Christ (cf. Deut. xxix. 29).
173. M. We know from the Qur'an (Surah IV., An Nisa', 156) that Jesus was not killed,
but ascended up to heaven without dying1. It is a mere Jewish legend that represents Him
as put to death.
C. If so, there is no hope of salvation for you, for me, or for any man. But we know from
God's Word that He died and rose again before He ascended into heaven. [Vide §§ 94, 95.]
174. M. If the forgiveness of sins is dependent on the death of Christ, how was it that He
forgave sins before He died? and how were men saved in the ages before His birth?
C. Through the Atonement which He was about to accomplish (Heb. ix. 13, 14, 24-28). [There is
no time with God, though we speak of past, present, and future.]
175. M. If Christ paid our debts, to whom did He pay them?