Why is Christ's substitutionary atonement important for Christians?

The doctrine of substitutionary atonement is central to the Christian faith as it embodies the gospel message. Christ, as our substitute, took upon Himself the penalty for our sins, thus satisfying divine justice. This is crucial because it means that we can be reconciled to God, as the wrath due to our sin was poured out on Christ instead. As stated in 2 Corinthians 5:21, God made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, enabling us to receive righteousness. Through faith in Christ, we become beneficiaries of this great exchange, receiving eternal life and standing before God justified.