Why is Jesus' crucifixion central to Christian faith?

The crucifixion of Jesus is the cornerstone of the Christian faith, representing the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan for humanity. It embodies the concept of substitutionary atonement where Christ, the Lamb of God, takes upon Himself the sins of His people (John 18:11). This redemptive act satisfies divine justice and reconciles believers to God. According to Romans 3:25, it is through faith in His blood that we receive justification. Furthermore, Hebrews 10:10 emphasizes that we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all, reinforcing that His sacrifice is complete and final. Therefore, understanding the significance of the crucifixion is vital for recognizing the entirety of the gospel message.