------------------------------------------------------- **Cross Reference**: #theology, #Christian_identity, #Gods_grace, #redemption, #Christology # **[[Christ’s Work]] of Salvation: From Eternity to the Cross and Beyond** The doctrine of [[Christ’s saving work]] is central to the [[Christian faith]], explaining how [[Jesus]] saves us from sin and reconciles us to [[God]]. The depth of this work spans from eternity past, through His [[Incarnation]] and ministry on earth, to His death, resurrection, and ongoing advocacy for believers. Let’s explore this step by step, breaking down the key aspects of what [[Jesus]] accomplished for humanity. ## The Eternal Plan of Salvation Before the world began, the plan for our [[Salvation]] was already in place. *Ephesians 1:4–5* tells us, *“He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before Him.”* This means that [[Jesus]]' saving work wasn’t a reaction to humanity’s fall into sin; it was part of [[God]]’s eternal purpose. [[Jesus]], as part of the [[divine counsel]], purposed with the [[Father]] to accomplish our redemption. > The [[Salvation]] [[Jesus]] provides began long before His earthly life. It was a [[divine plan]], lovingly designed to rescue humanity from the consequences of sin. - **Key Scripture**: - [Ephesians 1:4–5](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians+1.4-5&version=AMP) - [1 Peter 1:20](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Peter+1.20&version=AMP) #### **Call to Action**: - Reflect on the incredible love [[God]] has shown by planning your [[Salvation]] from eternity. How does this truth shape your view of [[God]]’s care for you, even before you existed? ## The [[Incarnation]]: [[God]] Becomes Man The [[Incarnation]]—[[God]] becoming flesh in the person of [[Jesus]]—is a cornerstone of our [[Salvation]]. *John 1:14* declares, *“The Word became flesh and dwelt among us.”* In becoming man, [[Jesus]] brought the promise of [[Salvation]] into the world, not just through His teaching, but by His life. His actions, miracles, and interactions with people demonstrated His [[divine authority]] to save. > The [[Incarnation]] was the moment when [[God]]’s plan for [[Salvation]] entered human history. [[Jesus]] came as the promised [[Savior]], fully human and fully [[divine]], to bridge the gap between humanity and [[God]]. - **Key Scripture**: - [John 1:14](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+1.14&version=AMP) - [Luke 1:68–79](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke+1.68-79&version=AMP) #### **Call to Action**: - How does the reality of [[God]] becoming man in the person of [[Jesus]] inspire your faith? Consider the lengths to which [[God]] has gone to bring [[Salvation]] to you personally. ## The Cross: Atonement and Reconciliation The cross is the central moment in [[Christ]]’s work of [[Salvation]]. It was on the cross that [[Jesus]] made [[Atonement]] for our sins, taking our place and paying the price for the sins of humanity. *Isaiah 53:5* prophesies this truth: *“But He was pierced for our transgressions; He was crushed for our iniquities.”* [[Jesus]], the sinless [[Son of God]], bore the punishment that we deserved so that we could be reconciled to [[God]]. > On the cross, [[Jesus]] took on the full weight of humanity’s sin, making the ultimate [[sacrifice]] to bring us into right relationship with [[God]]. His death was not just a display of love but the necessary payment for our redemption. - **Key Scripture**: - [Isaiah 53:1–12](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+53&version=AMP) - [Romans 5:1–19](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans+5.1-19&version=AMP) #### **Call to Action**: - Have you fully embraced the forgiveness that [[Christ]]’s death offers? Reflect on the significance of [[Jesus]] taking your place on the cross and what that means for your daily life. ## Resurrection: Victory Over Sin and Death After His crucifixion, [[Jesus]] rose from the dead, securing victory over sin and death. *1 Corinthians 15:20–22* states, *“But in fact [[Christ]] has been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep.”* His resurrection is the guarantee of our future resurrection and eternal life. Without the resurrection, the cross would have been incomplete—death would still have dominion. But [[Christ]]’s resurrection shows that death has been defeated. > The resurrection is the proof of [[Jesus]]’ victory over the powers of sin, death, and the devil. It is the foundation of the [[Christian hope]] that we, too, will one day be raised to new life with Him. - **Key Scripture**: - [1 Corinthians 15:20–22](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Corinthians+15.20-22&version=AMP) - [Revelation 19:11–16](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation+19.11-16&version=AMP) #### **Call to Action**: - How does the reality of [[Christ]]’s resurrection influence your perspective on life and death? Consider how His victory over death gives you hope and confidence in facing life’s challenges. ## Ascension and Ongoing Intercession After His resurrection, [[Jesus]] ascended into heaven, where He now sits at the right hand of the [[Father]]. *Acts 1:9–11* recounts this event, reminding us that [[Jesus]] has returned to the [[Father]] but will one day come again. In the meantime, *1 John 2:1* tells us that [[Jesus]] serves as our [[advocate]]: *“If anyone does sin, we have an [[advocate]] with the [[Father]], [[Jesus Christ]] the righteous.”* > [[Jesus]]' work of [[Salvation]] didn’t end with the cross or even the resurrection. He continues to intercede on our behalf, advocating for us before the [[Father]] and ensuring that we remain secure in His grace. - **Key Scripture**: - [Acts 1:9–11](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts+1.9-11&version=AMP) - [1 John 2:1](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+John+2.1&version=AMP) #### **Call to Action**: - Do you find comfort in knowing that [[Jesus]] is interceding for you right now? Reflect on how His ongoing work as your [[advocate]] gives you assurance and peace in your relationship with [[God]]. ## **Call to Action** [[Christ]]’s work of [[Salvation]] is comprehensive—it began in eternity past, was accomplished in His life, death, and resurrection, and continues today as He intercedes for believers. This is the foundation of the [[Christian faith]], and it calls for a response of faith, trust, and gratitude. > How are you responding to [[Christ]]’s saving work in your own life? Are you living in the freedom and joy of His completed work, and are you sharing that message with others? Take time this week to reflect on the depth of what [[Jesus]] has done to secure your [[Salvation]]. Consider how His [[Incarnation]], [[atoning death]], victorious resurrection, and ongoing advocacy shape the way you live, and let it inspire you to share this good news with the world.