Romans 3:25 "God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood. He did this to demonstrate his justice..."
Paul is explaining how Jesus became a sacrifice for our sins. Just as sacrifices were made to atone for sin-usually bulls and goats-Jesus was playing the part of sacrifice for us. God "presented him" just like a priest might present a bull or goat before the altar. This is an almost eery image-God "presenting" Jesus like he really was an animal. Jesus was slaughtered on our behalf.
I've been reading "Vintage Jesus" by Mark Driscoll and he emphasizes the concept that Jesus took on our sin. Even though he himself was sinless, on the cross he literally bore our sin. He became sin and became everything we are on the cross. He took on the sins of the world and died in our place. He was the ultimate sacrifice. Normally, you would slaughter some goats or a bull year after year to atone for sin. But now, Jesus as the perfect lamb died for all the sins of all the world. One shot and it was all done. This just makes me awe at the love God has for me.
Dear Lord, help me to remember Christ's sacrifice. Amen.
