How do we know that Jesus Christ is our substitute?

The doctrine of substitutionary atonement holds that Jesus Christ died in our place, bearing the penalty for our sins. This is foundational to Reformed theology, as it underscores God’s justice and grace. In Luke 13:3, Jesus warns of the necessity of repentance for salvation, which reinforces the understanding of His role as our substitute. According to 1 Peter 2:24, 'Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree,' indicating that Christ took upon Himself the burden of our iniquities. The divine exchange articulated in scripture assures us that the punishment for sins is borne entirely by Him, and thus we, in Christ, are freed from condemnation. This truth reassures believers that God cannot demand payment twice—for Christ has settled the account through His sacrificial death, providing a secure hope for all who trust in Him.