Faith, Atonement, and Redemption

“God presented Christ as a sacrifice of atonement, through the shedding of his blood—to be received by faith. He did this to demonstrate his righteousness, because in his forbearance he had left the sins committed beforehand unpunished— he did it to demonstrate his righteousness at the present time, so as to be just and the one who justifies those who have faith in Jesus.” Romans 3:25-26 (NIV)

Have you ever noticed how the Apostle Paul's writings are densely packed with philosophical and theological ideas that aren't easily digested in a single reading? His words often require careful study, multiple readings, and a willingness to explore different interpretations. Scholars, theologians, and everyday readers alike turn to various translations and commentaries, seeking to untangle the depth of his arguments—and in doing so, they remind us that we’re not alone in our efforts.

One perfect example of this richness is today’s passage. In just a few lines, Paul presents a sweeping theological claim about atonement, righteousness, and faith, weaving together key themes that define Christian belief. To grasp its full significance, we must slow down, look at it from different angles, and allow its meaning to unfold.

Here are some of the main ideas in Romans 3:25-26:

God presented Christ, God in the personage of the Son, who took on the human form of Jesus, who was both fully God and fully human. Both aspects are essential to understanding our redemption.

As a sacrifice of atonement, Jesus was offered as the means of reconciliation between humanity and God, fulfilling the need for atonement through His death. Because humanity is blemished with sin, our sacrifice is insufficient.

Through the shedding of His blood, only God Himself, in the form of the unblemished Jesus, was worthy of the reparation required to heal the rift between God and humanity. Jesus' sacrifice was the ultimate payment, not for his sins, for he was sinless, but for ours.

To be received by faith: The price of the atonement has been paid; the only requirement for humanity is to accept God’s grace.

To demonstrate his righteousness, God’s justice is revealed in Jesus’ sacrifice, showing that he does not ignore sin but provides a way for forgiveness.

God’s forbearance in passing over previous sins – Before Jesus, God, in His forbearance, delayed full judgment on sins rather than leaving them entirely unpunished. His sacrifice retroactively covers those who had faith in God before he came.

God remains both just and the justifier, highlighting the balance between His justice and mercy. Because God is holy and righteous, he cannot simply overlook sin without consequence. Atonement required a sacrifice, and through Jesus’s sacrificial death, God fulfilled that requirement. Now, through faith in Jesus, God extends His grace to all who believe.

Paul’s words remind us of God’s unwavering justice and amazing grace. We are not left to struggle under the weight of our sins, nor the misapprehension that we can earn our salvation through our own efforts. Instead, God has provided the way—through Jesus Christ—so that we might be forgiven and made right with Him. His righteousness ensures that sin does not go unnoticed, and His grace assures us that we are redeemed through faith, not works.

No matter where we are on our journey, this truth brings great hope. Whether we feel unworthy, distant, or burdened, we can rest in the knowledge that God has already made a way for reconciliation. All we must do is receive His grace and trust in Christ’s perfect sacrifice.

Heavenly Father, thank you for your justice, mercy, and grace. Thank you for sending Jesus to be the sacrifice that reconciles us to you. We stand in awe of your righteousness and boundless love, knowing that through faith, we are forgiven and made new. Help us to embrace this truth, to walk in the freedom of your grace, and to live as people who reflect your goodness. May we trust not in our own strength, but in the power of Jesus’ sacrifice. Strengthen our faith, guide our hearts, and draw us ever closer to you. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Blessings,

Pastor Tim