Why is the doctrine of substitution important for Christians?

The doctrine of substitution is crucial for Christians as it encapsulates the heart of the gospel message. It reveals the nature of God’s justice—sin must be punished—and His mercy—He provided a substitute to bear that punishment for us. As highlighted in Isaiah 53:5-6, He was wounded for our transgressions and crushed for our iniquities; this teaches us that our salvation was not without cost but that Christ bore our sins in His own body. Understanding this doctrine deepens our appreciation for the grace we have received, as 1 Peter 2:24 explains that by His wounds we are healed. For believers, knowing that Christ has substituted Himself for us leads to a profound gratitude, prompting us to live in holy obedience and love, reflecting on the depth of Christ’s sacrificial love.