The Fundamentals of the Faith (Part 6)

His Atonement and Redemption

Jesus’ ultimate mission was not only to make atonement for sins, He also came to redeem, and therefore save fallen man from his sin. His death, burial, and resurection gives believer’s power over Satan, sin, and self. What is commonly refered to as His atonement makes it possible for sinners to have a personal relationship with the living God. Jesus accomplished this on the cross of Calvary. He offered Himself up as a perfect once-and-for-all sacrifice to God the Father on our behalf and for His benefit and pleasure. His death was no accident, it was:

Voluntary, by His own free will (Jn. 6:51;10:14-18).

Predetermined, set to happen, prophesied, and predicted in the Old Testament and by Jesus Himself (Is.53; Jn.10:17).

Sacrificial, giving up of Himself (Jn.13:37).

Expiatory, He made full amends for the wrong doing and guilt of those sinners who trust in Him alone (Jn.316-18,36; Heb.9:22; Heb.10).

Propitiatory, He appeased God’s full wrath for everyone who believes (Rom3:25; 1Jn.2:2;4:10).

Redemptive, He paid-off the price to purchase us from the slave-market of sin (Rom.3:24; Eph.1:7), and

Substitutionary He suffered, in our place, God’s wrath that we justly deserve(Is.53:6).

This atonement is universal in its appeal, but practical only to those who receive it by faith. It is by grace through faith in Christ alone, that His accomplishments merit eternal life and can make a difference in ones life (Eph.2:8-10). This is Salvation (or being “born again”)! We cannot do any good thing to get this atonement. We simply have to receive it from Him as a gift. Like a beggar with open hands with nothing to offer. This is apart from any religious ceremony, sacrament or creed.

Do you know this Jesus who died for you?