What does the Bible teach about the substitutionary death of Christ?

The substitutionary death of Christ is the most important doctrine in the Bible, for as Paul states in 1 Corinthians 15:3–4, it is “of first importance” that “Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures.” Because “the wages of sin is death” (Rom. 6:23), Jesus died the death we all deserve, paying the penalty for every sin—past, present, and future. This work was not an accident but was according to the plan of God, pictured in the Old Testament from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to the sacrifice in Genesis 3:21.

The work of the cross is defined by several essential characteristics. It was punitive, as a judgment for all sin (Gal. 3:13; 2 Cor. 5:21), and substitutionary, meaning Jesus was “wounded for our iniquities” (Isa. 53:5–6). It was voluntary, as He went willingly (John 10:18), and redemptive, buying us out of the slave market of sin (Gal. 3:13). Furthermore, it was propitiatory, satisfying God’s demand for a perfect sacrifice (Rom. 3:25), and reconciling, restoring our peace with God (Rom. 5:1). This work is efficacious; when anyone puts faith in it, it accomplishes their salvation (Rom. 5:9). Finally, it is revelatory, displaying God’s love, mercy, and grace (John 3:16; Rom. 5:8).