Atonement: The Heart of Salvation and Hope
Summary
In my recent sermon, I delved into the profound significance of atonement as we approach Easter, a time when we reflect on the cross and resurrection of Jesus Christ. I began by reiterating the good news of Jesus, emphasizing His identity as the Messiah, the Anointed One, and the King. This truth is the climax of the Bible's narrative and the foundation of our faith. Jesus of Nazareth, who lived 2,000 years ago, is the fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecies as the Messiah and the sovereign Lord over all creation.
I then shifted our focus to the concept of salvation, which is often questioned in relation to the good news. Salvation is the transformative process that begins when we accept the truth of Jesus' kingship and choose to live under His lordship. It is both a present reality and a future hope, encompassing life after death as well as life in the present world.
As we are in the season of Lent, a time for reflection and preparation for Easter, I emphasized the importance of understanding the role of the cross in the gospel. The English word "atonement" suggests reconciliation and the mending of a broken relationship. This is the essence of what Jesus accomplished on the cross—He reconciled us to God.
To unpack the meaning of atonement, I turned to the Gospel of John, where John the Baptist introduces Jesus as "the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world." This title, "Lamb of God," is rich with Old Testament symbolism and points to Jesus' role in atonement. It is associated with the Passover lamb, the suffering servant in Isaiah, and the sacrificial system for the forgiveness of sins.
The Passover lamb, part of the Exodus story, was a symbol of God's deliverance of Israel from slavery in Egypt. The blood of the lamb marked the houses of the Israelites, sparing them from the angel of death. This event foreshadowed the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus, whose blood delivers us from the bondage of sin.
The suffering servant in Isaiah is depicted as a lamb led to slaughter, bearing the iniquities of the people. This servant's suffering and death for the transgressions of others prefigure Christ's sacrificial death on the cross.
Lastly, the Old Testament sacrificial system provided a means for atonement through the shedding of blood. Jesus' death on the cross is the fulfillment of these sacrifices, offering a once-for-all atonement for our sins.
In conclusion, I emphasized that salvation is not only about eternal life but also about experiencing God's presence, peace, and healing in this life. Atonement is a key aspect of the salvation we receive through Jesus, and as we enter into the story of the good news, we participate in this atonement.
Key Takeaways:
- The title "Lamb of God" encapsulates the multifaceted role of Jesus in atonement, drawing from the rich tapestry of Old Testament imagery. It signifies Jesus as the ultimate Passover lamb, the suffering servant, and the fulfillment of the sacrificial system for sin. This title is not just a label but a profound declaration of Jesus' mission to reconcile humanity to God. [29:37]
- Atonement is not merely a theological concept but a lived experience of restoration with our Creator. It transcends human logic and systematic theology, as it is rooted in the holy mystery of the cross. The passion and death of Christ are the decisive interventions of God in human history, bringing about reconciliation and forgiveness in ways that defy full human comprehension. [24:08]
- Salvation encompasses both the present life and the life to come. It is a mistake to view salvation solely as a future hope, as it also involves the tangible experience of God's comfort and peace in our current existence. The gospel promises not only eternal life but also an abundant life here and now, marked by the healing and presence of God. [14:21]
- The concept of atonement must be understood in the context of the entire biblical narrative. It is not an isolated doctrine but is deeply connected to the story of God's redemptive work throughout history. From the Exodus to the prophecies of Isaiah, atonement is a theme that culminates in the person and work of Jesus Christ. [22:10]
- Reflecting on our mortality and the frailty of life can deepen our appreciation for the salvation Jesus offers. As we recognize the limitations of our earthly existence, we are reminded of the eternal life promised to us—a life free from the constraints of sin and decay. This hope is an integral part of the Christian message and should shape our understanding of salvation. [11:50]
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. John 1:29 - "The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, 'Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!'"
2. Isaiah 53:5-7 - "But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed. He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth; he was led like a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before its shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth."
3. Exodus 12:21-23 - "Then Moses summoned all the elders of Israel and said to them, 'Go at once and select the animals for your families and slaughter the Passover lamb. Take a bunch of hyssop, dip it into the blood in the basin and put some of the blood on the top and on both sides of the doorframe. None of you shall go out of the door of your house until morning. When the Lord goes through the land to strike down the Egyptians, he will see the blood on the top and sides of the doorframe and will pass over that doorway, and he will not permit the destroyer to enter your houses and strike you down.'"
#### Observation Questions
1. What does John the Baptist mean when he calls Jesus "the Lamb of God"? ([03:34])
2. How does the Passover lamb in Exodus symbolize deliverance for the Israelites? ([20:03])
3. In Isaiah 53, how is the suffering servant described, and what is his role? ([23:04])
4. According to the sermon, what are the three Old Testament traditions that the title "Lamb of God" alludes to? ([19:14])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the title "Lamb of God" encapsulate Jesus' role in atonement according to the sermon? ([03:34])
2. Why is the concept of atonement significant for understanding the gospel message? ([02:18])
3. How does the sermon explain the relationship between atonement and reconciliation with God? ([02:39])
4. What does the sermon suggest about the present and future aspects of salvation? ([07:00])
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on the title "Lamb of God." How does understanding Jesus in this way impact your view of His sacrifice? ([03:34])
2. The sermon emphasizes that salvation is both a present reality and a future hope. How can you experience and share God's peace and healing in your daily life? ([07:00])
3. How does the concept of atonement as a lived experience of restoration challenge or affirm your current relationship with God? ([02:39])
4. In what ways can reflecting on the frailty of life deepen your appreciation for the salvation Jesus offers? ([11:01])
5. The sermon mentions that salvation includes experiencing God's presence and comfort now. Can you identify a recent moment where you felt God's presence in your life? How did it affect you? ([14:21])
6. How can you incorporate the practice of reflecting on the cross and resurrection into your preparation for Easter this year? ([00:44])
7. Considering the multifaceted role of Jesus in atonement, how can you better explain this concept to someone who is new to the faith? ([19:14])
Devotional
Day 1: Jesus, the Ultimate Passover Lamb
The title "Lamb of God" is not merely a label but a profound declaration of Jesus' mission to reconcile humanity to God. This title encapsulates Jesus' multifaceted role in atonement, drawing from the rich tapestry of Old Testament imagery. It signifies Jesus as the ultimate Passover lamb, whose blood delivers us from the bondage of sin, the suffering servant who bears the iniquities of the people, and the fulfillment of the sacrificial system for sin. Understanding Jesus as the Lamb of God allows believers to grasp the depth of atonement and the extent of God's love in sending His Son to be the ultimate sacrifice for sin.
The Passover lamb was a symbol of deliverance for the Israelites, marking their houses and sparing them from death. This foreshadowed Jesus' sacrifice, whose blood marks the hearts of believers, sparing them from eternal separation from God. The suffering servant in Isaiah, depicted as a lamb led to slaughter, prefigures Christ's sacrificial death, bearing the sins of humanity. The Old Testament sacrificial system, which required the shedding of blood for the forgiveness of sins, finds its fulfillment in Jesus' death on the cross, offering a once-for-all atonement for our sins. [29:37]
"For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed. Let us therefore celebrate the festival, not with the old leaven, the leaven of malice and evil, but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth." - 1 Corinthians 5:7-8 ESV
Reflection: How does understanding Jesus as the "Lamb of God" change the way you view the significance of His death and resurrection?
Day 2: Atonement Beyond Human Logic
Atonement transcends human logic and systematic theology, as it is rooted in the holy mystery of the cross. The passion and death of Christ are the decisive interventions of God in human history, bringing about reconciliation and forgiveness in ways that defy full human comprehension. This lived experience of restoration with our Creator goes beyond what can be explained; it must be encountered and embraced. The mystery of atonement invites believers to trust in God's profound work on the cross, where Jesus took upon Himself the sins of the world and offered a path to reconciliation.
The cross stands as a testament to God's love and justice, intersecting in a moment of divine intervention that offers hope and healing to all who believe. The atonement is not just a doctrine to be studied but a reality to be lived, as it impacts the believer's relationship with God, with others, and with themselves. It is in the shadow of the cross that one finds the true meaning of grace and the power of God to transform lives. [24:08]
"But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed." - Isaiah 53:5 ESV
Reflection: In what ways does the mystery of the cross challenge or deepen your faith, and how can you embrace this mystery in your daily walk with God?
Day 3: Salvation as Present Reality and Future Hope
Salvation is not merely a future hope but also a present reality that involves experiencing God's comfort and peace in our current existence. The gospel promises not only eternal life but also an abundant life here and now, marked by the healing and presence of God. This understanding of salvation invites believers to live in the fullness of God's kingdom today, not just waiting for the life to come. It is a mistake to view salvation solely as a future hope, as it also involves tangible experiences of God's grace and transformation in the present.
Believers are called to live out their salvation by embodying the values of the kingdom of God, such as love, joy, peace, and justice, in their everyday lives. This means engaging with the world around them in a way that reflects the character of Christ and the reality of His lordship. Salvation is an ongoing journey of becoming more like Jesus, impacting every aspect of life and influencing how believers interact with the world. [14:21]
"And this is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent." - John 17:3 ESV
Reflection: What is one tangible way you can live out the reality of your salvation today, reflecting God's kingdom in your daily life?
Day 4: Atonement within the Biblical Narrative
The concept of atonement must be understood in the context of the entire biblical narrative. It is not an isolated doctrine but is deeply connected to the story of God's redemptive work throughout history. From the Exodus to the prophecies of Isaiah, atonement is a theme that culminates in the person and work of Jesus Christ. This broader narrative helps believers see atonement as part of God's unfolding plan of salvation, which is woven throughout the Scriptures.
Recognizing atonement within the biblical narrative allows believers to appreciate the continuity of God's love and the consistency of His purposes. It also helps them to see their own lives as part of this grand story, with Jesus' atoning work on the cross being central to their identity and mission as followers of Christ. The biblical narrative of atonement invites believers to enter into the story, to be shaped by it, and to live in light of its truth. [22:10]
"Surely he has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows; yet we esteemed him stricken, smitten by God, and afflicted." - Isaiah 53:4 ESV
Reflection: How does seeing atonement as part of the larger biblical narrative influence your understanding of God's redemptive plan for your life?
Day 5: Mortality and the Hope of Salvation
Reflecting on our mortality and the frailty of life can deepen our appreciation for the salvation Jesus offers. As we recognize the limitations of our earthly existence, we are reminded of the eternal life promised to us—a life free from the constraints of sin and decay. This hope is an integral part of the Christian message and should shape our understanding of salvation. The awareness of our mortality drives us to seek the eternal, to find hope in the promise of resurrection, and to live with a perspective that transcends the temporal.
The Christian hope of salvation is not just an escape from death but an invitation to a life that is truly life, both now and forever. It is a life characterized by the presence of God, the transformation of our character, and the anticipation of a future where every tear will be wiped away. This hope empowers believers to live courageously and generously, investing in things that have eternal significance. [11:50]
"For this perishable body must put on the imperishable, and this mortal body must put on immortality." - 1 Corinthians 15:53 ESV
Reflection: How does the reality of your mortality influence the way you prioritize your life, and what eternal investments can you make today?
Quotes
"Salvation is not just about this life but it's also about what happens after we die, life after this life and I think sometimes we don't think about that enough, that there is something good and beautiful and wonderful after this life that includes our bodies, it includes our resurrected bodies that God has promised after we are resurrected in the end times that we enter into eternal life that we have that is not marred by sin, is not held back by the constraints of brokenness and sin and disease and weakness but that promise and it's a part of this message of salvation." [11:50]
"Salvation is what happens as we, in our minds and in our hearts, hear this good news and we start to think and we start to believe that is true. Not just true in a sense that's detached from us and that's distant from us. But this truth, I want to live under this truth that Jesus is indeed King. He is Lord of this universe. And salvation is what begins to happen to us as that realization, not just a mental realization, but a realization of the heart and of the will of our whole existence as that realization begins to dawn on us and we begin to live under that truth." [07:16]
"The shedding of his blood as a sacrifice for our sin to atone, to make one to reconcile us to God. That's part of what this Gospel message is about. And this message, theologians have wrestled over this question for millennia, literally. Ever since the death of Jesus at Calvary and the forgiveness of our sins. The infinite and holy mystery of the cross is one in which in the passion and death of Christ on the cross God has intervened decisively on our behalf. Reconciliation happens. Forgiveness happens." [29:37]
"Salvation is part of the benefit of what we receive as we enter into the story of the good news. Salvation is not just about eternal life although it is that, salvation is also about this life but it's not confined just to this life. Atonement is partly what we experience in this salvation that we receive from Jesus. So I want to look at our text again from John chapter 1, I'll read it out, just parts of it and the parts that I really want to focus on today." [16:34]
"The Passover lamb, part of the Exodus story, was a symbol of God's deliverance of Israel from slavery in Egypt. The blood of the lamb marked the houses of the Israelites, sparing them from the angel of death. This event foreshadowed the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus, whose blood delivers us from the bondage of sin." [22:10]
"He was oppressed and he was afflicted yet he opened not his mouth like a lamb that is led to the slaughter and like a sheep that before it shares the silence so he opened not his mouth. By oppression and judgment he was taken away and as for his generation who considered that he was cut off out of the land of the living, stricken for the transgression of my people." [24:08]
"So one of the things that God provided for Israel in the relationship with him in the Old Testament was this provision for sin, this atonement and now I'm talking about atonement has this very specific technical sense. It has to do with cleansing of sin through sacrifice, the slaughtering of an animal, the shedding of its blood and then the sprinkling of that blood on those who had come to offer that sacrifice." [25:56]
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