I do not know that there need be much difference of thought in the statements you make. The argument is the a fortiori argument which the Holy Ghost always uses—rather, the way He always reasons downward from what God is and has done. Besides, there is the contrast here of our state: when we were enemies He reconciled us, being reconciled He is not going to reject us then. His life does save us then along the pathway, but to the full result of salvation. His death, a thing outside us in grace, reconciled us to God; then in living actual power He secures our salvation. We have to be kept by God's power along the desert road and against the snares of the enemy. He ever lives for us as He once died for us, but then it results in the final salvation. To have us saved to the end in glory, He must keep us along the way, hence I say I do not know that the difference is very great.