Book of 1 John - Chapter 2 - Verse 2

The verse "And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world." from 1 John 2:2 is a powerful reminder of the sacrifice made by Jesus Christ for the redemption of humanity. The word "propitiation" means an atoning sacrifice or offering that turns away the wrath of God. In this context, Jesus Christ is portrayed as the ultimate sacrifice that satisfies the righteous demands of God's justice and reconciles sinful humanity with a holy God. The verse emphasizes that Jesus did not just die for the sins of a select few, but for the entire world. This universal scope of redemption highlights the inclusive nature of God's grace and mercy, offering salvation to all who accept Him. It is a profound message of hope and love, underscoring the limitless grace and forgiveness that God provides through Jesus Christ.

One of the key theological interpretations of the verse "And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world" is the concept of atonement. The word "propitiation" used in this verse comes from the Greek word "hilasmos," which refers to the act of appeasing or satisfying the wrath of God. This term highlights the sacrificial nature of Jesus Christ's death on the cross, serving as a substitute for the punishment that humanity deserved for their sins. The atonement provided by Christ is not limited to a select group of people but is available to the entire world, emphasizing the universal scope of God's grace and mercy. Through His sacrifice, Jesus made it possible for all to receive forgiveness and reconciliation with God, regardless of their background or past transgressions. This verse highlights the inclusivity of God's salvation plan, demonstrating His love for all humanity and His desire for all to come to repentance and experience the redemption offered through Christ.