accepted

Webster's Dictionary: accepted - generally approved

I think that is the definition often (but not always) intended by those that would say, "the gospel is that man is accepted just as he is, a sinner standing in need of a saviour." When that statement is used to indicate that Jesus saw worth in those that are unworthy, I agree. When that statement is used to indicate that Jesus suffered and died to bring reconciliation to those that not only didn't seek His redemption but were His enemies, I agree. And so forth. But when that is used per the dictionary definition, i.e., we are approved, I do not agree. Sadly, it often starts with the ideas I can affirm but then drifts to the latter which is not acceptable and a rampant liberal worldview. The significance is the former recognizes the beauty and miracle of what Christ accomplished while the latter does not see the real need for a savior, especially a substutionary one.

While we were slaves to Sin, Christ Jesus extended grace, mercy and life to us. As J. Gresham Machen writes in Christianity & Liberalism:

“The atoning death of Christ, and that alone, has presented sinners as righteous in God’s sight; the Lord Jesus has paid the full penalty of their sins, and clothed them with His perfect righteousness before the judgment seat of God.

But Christ has done for Christians even far more than that. He has given to them not only a new and right relation to God, but a new life in God’s presence for evermore. He has saved them from the power as well as from the guilt of sin.

The New Testament does not end with the death of Christ; it does not end with the triumphant words of Jesus on the Cross, “It is finished.” The death was followed by the resurrection, and the resurrection like the death was for our sakes. Jesus rose from the dead into a new life of glory and power, and into that life He brings those for whom He died. The Christian, on the basis of Christ’s redeeming work, not only has died unto sin, but also lives unto God.”

HT:PC