“The Lord Jesus Christ came in flesh and, having “accepted the form of a slave, became obedient even to death on the cross” (Philippians 2:8). He has no other purpose than that by this dispensation of his most merciful grace he might give life to those who have become, as it were, members of his body. He is their head in order to obtain for them the kingdom of heaven. This he did to save and set free. He redeemed and enlightened those who had formerly been consigned to death of sin. They had been languishing in slavery, captivity and darkness under the power of the devil, the prince of sinners.”
Augustine (354-430) One of the Four Doctors of the Western Church, Bishop of Hippo. On What is Due to Sinners 1.39. PL 44:131. ACCS.P.234.