Propitiation and Expiation

Propitiation and Expiation are the two sides of the coin in regards to the finished work that Jesus the Christ has accomplished through his blood, to reconcile us to the Father.  I've split up Romans 5:6-11 in order that you can see the two sides of the coin.


Rom. 5:6 ¶ For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly.
Rom. 5:7 For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die.

Rom. 5:8 But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

Christ died "for us". The word "for" is "huper"  which means not only for the benefit of but also in place of.  Jesus was crucified in my stead.  Many don't understand why it was necessary that Christ would have to die.  If God is God why can't he just sweep our trespasses under the rug and just forget about it? The reason being God is just.  God is perfect, holy, and just.  He hates sin and rightfully must condemn it.  Those who preach a false gospel will fail to explain that we are in desperate need of a payment for our sin.  They will say "Jesus died for your benefit" but will fail to explain "he died in your place".  In the book of Romans Paul builds the case that on our very best day we are at best the worst of sinners who stand condemned before a holy, righteous God.  Who has every right to turn away from us forever (Rom.3:19).  

Rom. 5:9 Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.

Rom. 5:10 For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life.

Rom. 5:11 And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement. 

Here is the other side of the coin!  If a payment has been made in full, why in the world would I try and pay it myself?  A false gospel will lead people to bondage.  The scriptures are clear we cannot lift a pinky to save ourselves.  If Jesus has made a full payment--as the resurrection proves he did--then the other side of the coin is expiation.  We are free (those who have placed their faith in Christ)!  You cannot separate propitiation from expiation(reconciliation).  Should I sin that grace my abound?  No, that is completely stupid--sin leads to death.  That's like saying can I eat cow pies in order that the doctor can pump my stomach.  But as the apostle John says,

"My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous.  He is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the sins of the whole world."