ECT This is why I believe the Atonement played no favorites . . .

[Cross Reference]

Romans 5:18 Therefore, as one trespass led to condemnation for all men, so one act of righteousness brings justification and life to all men.

Which act of righteousness had to be completed before justification was brought to all men?

"Therefore, as one trespass led to condemnation for all men,"

Adam's transgression.

"so one act of righteousness brings justification and life to all men."

Though justified by faith, righteous men of the OT; before the cross, could not be released from the penalty of Adam's transgression. They died in "his" sin; their fallen nature. Forgiveness for Adam's transgression required the spilt blood of a sinless human man. Enter Jesus Christ, the only One who could ever qualify.

Here:

Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:

And more:

By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. Romans 5:1-2 (KJV)

In other words we now have access directly to the Throne of God. The "justified" OT saints didn't/couldn't that access. . .only the promise of it.

In this does "Hope" mean "Promise".