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gotribe said:
If a fact is still a fact, if reconciliation still means reconciliation, and actually still means actually, then how else must we read this statement?

Yes, the reconciliation is an accomplished fact for all men; however, the finished work of reconciliation does no one any good unless it is apprehended through the ministry of reconciliation (i.e., the means of grace). God has caused the word to go forth in preaching and in the sacraments that the Holy Spirit may work faith when and where it pleases God.