What does propitiation mean in relation to Jesus' sacrifice?

Propitiation is a theological term that describes how Jesus’ sacrificial death appeases God's wrath against sin. In 1 John 2:2, we see that Jesus is identified as the propitiation for our sins, meaning that His death serves to satisfy the requirements necessary for the forgiveness of sin. This is crucial, as it establishes that God's justice is upheld while mercy is extended to His people. The completeness of His sacrifice ensures that those who trust in Him are not only forgiven but also declared righteous in God's sight, making propitiation a central truth in historic Reformed theology and a cornerstone of the gospel message.