1 John 4:10
“In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.”
Dwell:
“Were I asked to focus the New Testament message in three words, my proposal would be adoption through propitiation, and I do not expect ever to meet a richer or more pregnant summary of the gospel than that.” - J.I. Packer
The term "propitiation" may seem like a lofty church term, but in essence, "to propitiate" simply means to "satisfy the wrath of God against sin".
Often, we're inclined to believe that God did this because of our inherent goodness or because He foresaw our church attendance and charitable giving. However, Romans 5:8 serves as a poignant reminder that Christ died for us while we were still dead in our sin (Read Romans 5:7-9). This underscores that God knew of our sinful nature, our rebellious tendencies, our inevitable shortcomings, and our need for redemption even before we came into existence.
The crux of the Gospel lies in this profound truth: despite our sinful nature, God loved us and sent His Son to die for us. While it may seem repetitive across a few devotionals, it's crucial to allow this truth to permeate every corner of our hearts. Embracing this reality has the power to transform our lives fundamentally.
Thought:
“Thus the use of the concept of propitiation witnesses to two great realities, the one, the reality and seriousness of the divine reaction against sin, and the other, the reality and the greatness of the divine love which provided the gift which should avert the wrath from me.” - Leon Morris
J.I. Packer encapsulates the essence of the entire New Testament in the concept of propitiation through substitution. He regards it as the central message: the idea that the condemnation from God, rightfully deserved by sinners (you and me), is taken on by a substitute (Jesus Christ).
“This is unspeakable love: God substituting himself in his Son to bear our condemnation.” - John Piper
Prayer:
Lord, I thank You for being both a just judge and a loving father. Only You can be the propitiation for my sin. The unblemished Lamb of God, who conquered death, so that I might have life! You alone are worthy and able. Praise Your holy name!
In Jesus Name, Amen