The Essentials with Sarah | The Atonement for Sin (Conclusion)

"Therefore, when we were perishing and, alienated from God, were hastening to hell, Christ took upon Himself the filthy depths of our sins, to rescue us from eternal destruction."  - John Calvin,  French theologian, pastor and reformer (1509-1564)

Hello, and welcome back! Atonement is deemed a foundational belief within both Judaism and Christianity, which maintain that humans must "atone for" (reconcile) their sins against God.

Previously, we examined atonement in the OT and its deep connection with the God-established, sacrificial system of the Israelites. Yom Kippur (The Day of Atonement) was the most important day for atonement in the Jewish Calendar.

In this session our focus will turn to atonement in Christianity, or otherwise known as the belief that human beings can be reconciled to, or reunited with, God through the sacrificial suffering and death of Jesus Christ. 

As you may remember, to atone for sins means to make amends or reparations for wrongdoing, seeking to reconcile with God after transgressing His laws or expectations. 

This commonly includes repentance, remorse, and actions that reveal a change of heart and behavior. In the NT, the Greek word for "atonement" is καταλλαγή (katallage), which means "reconciliation" or "restoration of relationship." 

Jesus Christ is presented in the NT as the ultimate accomplishment of the OT sacrificial system. His death on the cross dramatically illustrates the perfect and final atonement for sin. 

The NT often uses the Greek word "hilasterion" (ἱλαστήριον) to describe Christ's atoning work, signifying a propitiation (the turning away of God's wrath), or expiation (the cleansing of sin and removal of its guilt).

Romans 3:25 emphasizes that the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ fulfills the requirements of God's justice, thus allowing God to forgive sins while maintaining His righteousness. 

The superiority of of Christ's atonement compared to the OT sacrifices is detailed in Hebrews 9:12. This underscores that the atonement of Christ is final and absolute, unlike the repeated sacrifices of the Old Covenant (Mosaic covenant).

Atonement is fundamental to Christian theology in that it calls attention to the problem of sin, and the method by which we can be reconciled to God. It also reveals the holiness and justice of God, who can't ignore sin, and His love and mercy, which makes redemption possible through Jesus Christ (John 3:16).

Additionally, the concept of "substitutionary atonement" is illustrated here in the doctrine of atonement. This is where Christ takes the place of sinners and endures the penalty they deserve (Isaiah 53:5).

Let's quickly examine some practical implications of this for Christian believers. The atonement of Christ is essential to salvation and the promise of forgiveness. It demands a declaration of faith, repentance, and gratitude.

The atonement also provides a model for faithful, Christian living. Believers are inspired to live unselfishly, and to restore and repair damaged relationships with others (2 Corinthians 5:18).

On a final note, as we saw in our discussion, atonement is a powerfully, sophisticated, and consequential doctrine (principle) that makes manifest the magnitude of God's love and the gravity of sin.

Through the sacrifice of Christ we are offered hope, redemption, exoneration (forgiveness), declared righteous, and are even adopted into God's family. One can confidently assert that it is impossible to sufficiently summarize the spiritual benefits and gifts received through our relationship with Jesus Christ.

Scripture: Exodus 29:36; 1 Corinthians 5:7; Galatians 4:5; Colossians 2:14; Hebrews 10:12 

Prayer: Dear Jesus, I approach you with a humble heart, acknowledging my sins and shortcomings. I confess that I've strayed from your path, and for that, I'm truly sorry. I ask for your forgiveness, your cleansing, and your grace to renew my spirit and restore me to your love. Amen.

May you always feel God's love,

Sarah