February 7 1 John 2:2
He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world.
Theological Reflection
1 John 2:2 is a profound verse that touches on the heart of Christian soteriology—the doctrine of salvation. It presents Christ as the “propitiation” for sin, a term that signifies His atoning sacrifice, which satisfies divine justice and reconciles sinners to God. Let’s explore its key theological themes.
1. The Meaning of “Propitiation”
The Greek word translated as “propitiation” (ἱλασμός, hilasmos) carries the idea of an atoning sacrifice that turns away God’s righteous wrath against sin. This term is closely related to the Old Testament concept of the mercy seat (hilasterion), where the high priest would sprinkle the blood of a sacrifice to atone for the sins of Israel (Leviticus 16:15-16). Christ’s sacrifice fulfills and surpasses this old covenant practice—He Himself becomes the true and final atonement.
•Romans 3:25 confirms this idea: “whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith.”
•Hebrews 2:17 adds: “Therefore he had to be made like his brothers in every respect, so that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people.”
Through Christ’s work on the cross, God’s justice is fully satisfied, and His mercy is extended to sinners.
2. The Scope of Christ’s Atonement: “The Whole World”
The phrase “not for ours only but also for the sins of the whole world” raises an important theological question: Does this mean that Christ’s atonement applies universally to all people in a way that guarantees their salvation, or does it mean that His atonement is sufficient for all but only applied to those who believe?
There are two primary interpretations:
1.Universal Provision, Limited Application (Reformed View)
•Christ’s atonement is sufficient for all but effective only for the elect—those who repent and believe in Him.
•This aligns with passages like John 10:11 (“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.”).
•This view maintains that Christ’s atonement does not automatically save everyone but provides the means by which anyone who believes will be saved.
2.Universal Atonement (Arminian View)
•Christ’s death made salvation possible for every person, though not everyone will accept it.
•This aligns with John 3:16, which offers salvation to “whoever believes.”
•Christ’s sacrifice is available to all, but individuals must choose to receive it through faith.
Regardless of the view, the verse clearly underscores the sufficiency of Christ’s sacrifice—His atonement is not limited in power but is available to all who will come to Him.
3. Christ as Advocate and Intercessor
1 John 2:2 follows immediately after 1 John 2:1, which states: “But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous.” The connection between Christ’s advocacy and His atonement is vital.
•As Advocate (Paraklētos), Christ intercedes on behalf of believers, ensuring their continued forgiveness.
•As Propitiation, He has already made full satisfaction for sin, making His advocacy effective.
This dual role of Christ provides assurance to believers. We do not approach God based on our merit but on the finished work of Christ.
4. The Call to Holiness
John’s intention in writing this passage is not just doctrinal but deeply pastoral. He reassures believers that, though they may still struggle with sin, Christ’s atonement secures their standing with God. However, this truth is not meant to encourage complacency in sin but rather to inspire holiness:
•1 John 1:6-7: “If we say we have fellowship with him while we walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin.”
•True faith in Christ leads to a transformed life marked by obedience and love.
Conclusion
1 John 2:2 presents a beautiful picture of God’s love and justice. Christ’s atoning work is both exclusive (effective for those who believe) and universal in scope (sufficient for all). It highlights the deep assurance we have in Christ while calling us to live lives of holiness.
This verse echoes the invitation of Isaiah 55:1: “Come, everyone who thirsts, come to the waters; and he who has no money, come, buy and eat!” Christ’s sacrifice is enough—His invitation stands open to all who will receive it.
Do you know Jesus has died for you?
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