2 Corinthians 5:21 – Verse of the Day 8/17/14

If you have ever played or watched sports, you know how substitutions work. Every player has a position, but when someone gets hurt or tired, the coach puts in a substitute to take their place and play their position. A similar idea of substitution is central to the Bible’s understanding of forgiveness.

Although Jesus was not sinful and did not sin, God considered him to be guilty of our sin in order that he might die in our place. Paul’s point is that Jesus died a death as our substitute, and he received the penalty for our sin. Furthermore, not only did Jesus receive our sin, but we also received his righteousness. Although we were not ourselves righteous, God counts Jesus’ perfect righteousness to us as if it were really ours.

As you spend some time in prayer, consider the magnitude of Christ’s substitutionary sacrifice on your behalf. Thank God that you can come before Him in prayer, and that He hears your prayers as if you were perfectly righteous. Thank God for this wonderful gift of forgiveness and give Him praise!