Why is the atonement of Christ essential for Christian faith?

The atonement of Christ, as discussed in the sermon, is central to the Christian faith because it represents God's eternal purpose to provide a way for sinners to be justified. Christ's atoning sacrifice fulfills the demands of God's justice by bearing the penalty for sin. Through this substitutionary atonement, believers are declared righteous, reconciled to God, and freed from condemnation. The importance of atonement is illustrated in the narrative of Elijah, where the acceptance of a sacrifice symbolizes God's satisfaction. Without the atonement, there is no hope for salvation, making it the cornerstone of the Christian gospel.