Jesus Christ is the preeminent one who not only forgives, but also provides—through his death and resurrection—a basis for the forgiveness of sin. The apostle Paul points out Christ's work of expiation in Colossians 1:14. The concept of expiation is that we are cleansed from the guilt of our sins. Not only are we freed from the penalty of our sin, but we are freed from the guilt associated with it, as well. The work of Christ provides for us “forgiveness of sins” (1:14). Later in the Colossians, Paul writes, “And you, who were dead in trespasses and circumcision of your flesh, God made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses” (2:13). Union with Christ provides expiation of sin leading to forgiveness of sin. Sinners are made clean before a holy God and free to live a life of worship and mission. He did this “by canceling the record that stood against us with its legal demands. He set it aside, nailing it to the cross.” (2:14). Expiation is accomplished by Christ on the cross as he dies for sin; the sin of the believer is literally and completely nailed to the cross with Jesus. Jesus Christ takes his place of supremacy over sin and death and hell on our behalf, thus cleansing us from impurity.
If you're a believer in Jesus: when was the last time you thought about the fact that you are completely cleansed of you sin? When was the last time you experienced the freedom of knowing that you are guilt-free because of Christ? Why aren't you experiencing that daily?
If you're not following Jesus: Can you imagine a guilt-free life? Do you think it's even possible?
It is possible. And it is yours in Christ.
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