To all those for whom Christ has purchased redemption, he certainly and effectually applies and communicates the same; making intercession for them, and revealing unto them, in and by the word, the mysteries of salvation; effectively persuading them by his Spirit to believe and obey, and governing their hearts by his word and Spirit; overcoming all their enemies by his almighty power and wisdom, in such manner, and ways, as are most consonant to his wonderful and unsearchable dispensation.
The Confession concludes its consideration of the person and work of Jesus Christ by emphasizing that the redemption that comes through him is not a bare salvation. It is not to be likened to the lifeguard who rescues and deposits a drowning swimmer on the beach and then walks away. All that Christ does for the sinner he likewise applies, and that effectively--Christ not only saves, but he saves to the uttermost. As Hebrews says, he constantly lives to intercede for his people. He reveals unto them the "mysteries of salvation," primarily by the agency of the word of God. But the Spirit (here identified quite biblically as Christ's Spirit) also effectively persuades unto belief and obedience. Christ reigns in the hearts of his people by his Spirit and through his word. He is a powerful Savior, sure to save, greater than all the enemies that are aligned against him and his people. And he does all these things according to the riches of his wisdom. Believers will spend eternity learning of and marvelling at the wonders of Christ. How little we now appreciate what has been done for us and how it has been accomplished, and how it is working out in our lives even now.
Tomorrow: The glorious and exalted Christ of the Westminster Confession.
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