Salvation

The Work of Christ

Confessional Text

By His substitutionary death⁵⁸, He made full atonement for our sins⁵⁹, and triumphed over all the powers of evil⁶⁰. The third day, He rose again⁶¹, and is seated at the right hand of God the Father Almighty⁶².

Scriptural References

[58]

2 Corinthians 5:21

For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us

[59]

John 19:30

So when Jesus had received the sour wine, He said, 'It is finished!'

[60]

Colossians 2:15

Having disarmed principalities and powers, He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them in it

[61]

1 Corinthians 15:4

And that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures

[62]

Hebrews 1:8

But to the Son He says: "Your throne, O God, is forever and ever; A scepter of righteousness is the scepter of Your kingdom."

Hebrews 1:3

Who being the brightness of His glory and the express image of His person, and upholding all things by the word of His power, when He had by Himself purged our sins, sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high.

Hebrews 8:1

Now this is the main point of the things we are saying: We have such a High Priest, who is seated at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens.

Colossians 3:1-4

If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is our life appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory.

All scripture quotations are from the ESV (English Standard Version).

Historical & Theological Background

Historic Christianity has always taught that Christ's death was substitutionary—He took our place, bearing the punishment we deserved. Anselm's "satisfaction theory" and the Reformers' "penal substitutionary atonement" emphasized that Christ satisfied God's justice and wrath. Christ's resurrection vindicated His claims, defeated death, and secured our justification. His ascension and session at God's right hand demonstrate His completed work and ongoing reign. Christ Victus (Christ the Victor) is a theme throughout church history—Jesus conquered sin, death, and Satan.

African Contextual Commentary

Many African Christians live in fear of spiritual powers, ancestors, curses, and demonic oppression. This statement proclaims the complete victory of Christ: He has disarmed all spiritual rulers and authorities, triumphing over them at the cross. No witch, no curse, no ancestral spirit has power over those who are in Christ. His resurrection proves His victory is real and final. Additionally, Christ's work is finished—"It is finished" means salvation is complete. African believers need not add rituals, payments, or spiritual performances to Christ's work. His sacrifice alone is sufficient, and His victory is total.