Today we’re looking at the significance of the cross and what it means for us. What specifically did the cross accomplish? Why was it necessary? And what hope does it offer for the present? We’re going to dive in deep (get ready for some big words!) as we talk about how Jesus acted as our substitute, not only taking our sin upon Himself on the cross, but wiping it out completely. And by doing so, freely bringing us into relationship with Himself. You’ll be blessed by this closer look at Jesus’s death on the cross and His love for you.

Scripture References

Numbers 8:12
Leviticus 16:20-22
1 John 1:9
I John 2:2
1 John 4:10
Colossians 1:19-22
Hebrews 9:12
Leviticus 17:11
2 Corinthians 5:21

Definitions

• Propitiation: appeasement of God’s wrath against sin..
• Expiation: the removal of sin.
• Penal Substitution (substitutionary atonement): In His death, Jesus bears God’s wrath against our sin (penalty), and He dies in our place (substitution). Jesus’s death is a sacrifice for sins in our place.
• Atonement: The word means “at-one-ment.” To unite, attain a state of at-one-ness with God. Jesus’s death on the cross provided atonement for our sin.
• Reconciliation: The end of estrangement between us and God. We’re brought together in peaceful relationship. Renewal of restored relationship.

How Do We Cultivate This in Our Lives?

Take some time to reflect on these questions after you read the passage and listen to the podcast:

• Take time to learn about the cross. Look up verses from this episode and reflect on each one. See what you notice about the dimensions of the cross. 
• Get a book on the cross. John Stott, J.I. Packer, Fleming Rutledge, N.T. Wright, “What did the cross accomplish?
• Take one benefit of the cross from today’s podcast and journal or reflect on what that one benefit means in your life, and thank Jesus for it. It could be reconciliation, justification, forgiveness of sins, ransom from slavery and death, the substitutionary sacrifice for you, etc.

Stuff We Think You’ll Like

• Kelly’s brand new devotional, The Blessed Life is a 90-day journey through the mind, heart, and work of Jesus. Check it out here.
• Kelly’s most recent Bible study release on the book of Ruth called: Ruth: Loss, Love & Legacy. 
• Opening Music to the Cultivate Podcast is Time For Singing from her project Hymns & Hallelujahs
• Sign up for Kelly’s newsletter at KellyMinter.com
• Connect with Kelly on Instagram and Facebook 
• Check out Kelly’s work with Justice & Mercy International in the Amazon and in Moldova

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