The words “behold, now is the day of salvation” are spoken by the apostle Paul in 2 Corinthians 6:2. This is a short but very powerful appeal not to postpone reconciliation with God. Paul reminds us: God’s grace is at work now, and the response of faith must also be heard now.
The exact text
“For He says: ‘In an acceptable time I have heard You, and in the day of salvation I have helped You.’ Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation!” 2 Cor. 6:2
Paul quotes the Old Testament text from Isaiah 49:8, where the Lord speaks about a time of favor. The apostle shows that in Jesus Christ this time of God’s mercy has become especially near and real for every person. Salvation is not an abstract topic for the future, but God’s call addressed to us today.
What does “now is the day of salvation” mean
This does not mean that God will cease to be merciful tomorrow. It means that a person should not delay in responding. We often think: “I’ll repent later,” “When circumstances change,” “It’s not time yet.” But the gospel always brings us back to today:
“Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts!” Heb 3:15
“Seek the Lord while He may be found, call upon Him while He is near” Isa 55:6
“Today” is the time of decision. A person does not control tomorrow, does not know the future, and cannot guarantee himself another opportunity. This is not intimidation, but an expression of love.
Context: be reconciled to God
To properly understand 2 Cor 6:2, we need to see the broader context. At the end of chapter 5 Paul writes:
“On Christ’s behalf we plead: be reconciled to God!” 2 Cor 5:20
Here is the heart of the whole thought. “Now is the day of salvation” is a call to reconciliation with God through Jesus Christ. Paul does not merely state a theological truth—he asks, pleads, appeals as an ambassador of heaven.
And the next verse reveals the foundation of salvation:
“For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him!” 2 Cor 5:21
The day of salvation is possible only through Christ —through His sacrificial death, resurrection, and ministry for us.
How to apply this in your life
Paul’s words concern not only those who have not yet believed. They are also important for those who have long been in the church. Sometimes a person knows the truth, but postpones obedience in specific matters: reconciliation with a neighbor, victory over sin, the decision to be baptized, restoring prayer, faithfulness to the Word.
Ask yourself simple questions:
- Am I postponing repentance?
- Am I silencing God’s voice with habits, offenses, or love for the world?
- Am I waiting for a “better time” for full dedication to God?
The gospel answers very clearly: the best time is now. Today you can come to God in prayer, confess your sins, accept forgiveness through Jesus, and ask for strength for a new life.
Do not postpone prayer, do not postpone repentance, do not postpone obedience. “Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation!”
