Propitiation
Because Jesus Christ died, God’s justice is satisfied, God’s wrath has been turned away, and God’s mercy is freely available to anyone who wants it.
KEY VERSES
Romans 3:21-26 (NASB)
21 But now apart from the Law the righteousness of God has been manifested, being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets, 22 even the righteous-ness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all those who believe; for there is no distinction; 23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God; 24 being justified as a gift by His grace through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus; 25 whom God displayed publicly as a propitiation in His blood through faith. This was to demonstrate His righteousness, because in the forbearance of God He passed over the sins previously committed; 26 for the demonstration, I say, of His righteousness at the present time, so that He would be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus.
UNDERSTANDING
Share a story from your childhood about when you did something that damaged your home or room in some way. Did you admit fault? Did you try and fix the damage yourself? What does your response say about you?
Do you tend to struggle more with guilt over your sinfulness or trying to work to pay God back? Share something from your life that supports your answer? What counsel could you give yourself?
Go back and read verse 20. What misunderstanding was Paul addressing?
According to Paul, how does someone gain a right standing (righteousness) before God?
Does Romans 3:23 leave open the possibility that someone (other than Jesus) could obey God perfectly throughout their lifetime? Explain why this is so.
What does it mean to “fall short of the glory of God”?
How would you explain Christ’s work of salvation to an unbeliever?
According to these verses, what role do we play in our salvation?
How is it that a God of perfect justice could declare the guilty to be innocent?
Read Hebrews 2:17. What is the significance of Jesus’ being a“merciful and faithful high priest”? What does his being a priest have to do with Him serving as our propitation?
What further insight does Hebrews 2:17 give on the idea of propitiation?
APPLICATION
This week, Pastor Jeff reminded us, “Because Jesus Christ died, God’s justice is satisfied, God’s wrath has been turned away, and God’s mercy is freely available to anyone who wants it.” Which of these stands out to you most? Why?
Is there anything in your life you are trusting yourself rather than Jesus to do? What are some practical ways you can make sure you are trusting in Jesus?
How do you know that needs to hear that Jesus died so that the wrath of God would be turned away from them? How will you seek to share with them this week?
WANT TO DIVE DEEPER?
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GIVING
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