What does it mean that Jesus is our substitute?

The doctrine of substitution is foundational in understanding Christ's atoning sacrifice. Jesus took on the sin of His people, serving as their substitute on the cross. In the sermon, it is underscored that He bore the sins of others willingly, fulfilling the law's requirements on our behalf. This substitutionary atonement is what grants believers assurance before God, as they stand before Him through Christ's righteousness rather than their own. The assurance lies in the belief that God accepted Jesus' sacrifice, thus ensuring that those who believe in Him are freed from condemnation and counted righteous in His sight.