Why is understanding Christ as our substitute important?

Understanding Christ as our substitute is crucial because it reveals the depths of God's mercy and justice. In Isaiah 53:6, it is declared that 'the Lord has laid on Him the iniquity of us all,' demonstrating that Christ took upon Himself the sins of the elect. This substitutionary atonement means that He bore the full weight of our punishment and guilt, which is essential for recognizing the price of our redemption. By doing so, He satisfies God's justice and reconciles us to Him, affirming that in Christ, we now stand justified and are no longer under condemnation (Romans 8:1).