The following is an excerpt from our devotional series The Divine Exchange – Daily Devotions of Gratitude.

THE FIRST EXCHANGE: Jesus received punishment due to our transgressions and iniquities that we, in turn, might be forgiven. But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him… (Is 53:5)

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The entire message of the Gospel revolves around one unique historical event–the sacrificial death of Jesus on the cross. Concerning this, the writer of Hebrews says:  For by one sacrifice he has made perfect forever those who are being made holy (Hebrews 10:14). Two powerful expressions are combined: “perfect” and “forever.” Together, they depict a sacrifice which comprehends every need of the entire human race. Furthermore, its effects extend throughout time and into eternity.

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Here is the true meaning and purpose of the cross. On it a divinely ordained exchange took place. First, Jesus endured in our place all the evil consequences that were due by divine justice to our iniquity. Now, in exchange, God offers us all the good that was due to the sinless obedience of Jesus.

Scripture reveals many different aspects of the exchange, and many different areas in which it applies. In each case, however, the same principle holds true: The evil came upon Jesus that the corresponding good might be offered to us.

Jesus received the punishment due to our transgressions and iniquities that we, in turn, might be forgiven and so have peace with God. Until the punishment for sin had been inflicted there was no possibility of peace. There can be no peace for the sinner until he knows that his sin has been forgiven.

Prayer Points:

1. Thank Jesus for being punished by death so that, by believing in Him, our sins are forgiven.
2. Thank Him for being able to live a peaceful life.
3. Praise Him for paying that price for you personally.

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(Excerpted and used by permission from Derek Prince Ministries. Photo Credit: Marc-Olivier Jodoin on Unsplash)