Question 1

Why did Jesus have to die for our sins?

Accepted Answer

Christians believe that sin separates humanity from God, and that only a perfect sacrifice could restore that relationship. Jesus, being sinless and divine, offered himself as the ultimate sacrifice to pay the penalty for sin (substitutionary atonement). His death satisfies God's justice while demonstrating his love, making forgiveness possible for all who have faith.

Question 2

What is the difference between salvation and atonement?

Accepted Answer

Atonement refers to the act of reconciling God and humanity, specifically through Jesus' death and resurrection. It is the 'how' of salvation. Salvation is the broader concept of being saved from sin and its consequences, which includes atonement but also involves faith, repentance, and the gift of eternal life. In short, atonement is the means; salvation is the result.

Question 3

Do Christians believe you can lose your salvation?

Accepted Answer

This is debated among Christians. Some, like many Protestants, believe in 'once saved, always saved' (perseverance of the saints) – that true faith cannot be lost. Others, including Catholics and some Anglicans, believe salvation can be lost through serious sin or rejection of faith, and can be restored through repentance and sacraments like confession. The Bible has passages supporting both views (e.g., John 10:28-29 vs. Hebrews 6:4-6).

Question 4

How does Jesus' resurrection prove he is the Son of God?

Accepted Answer

Christians see the resurrection as God's validation of Jesus' identity and mission. By raising Jesus from the dead, God demonstrated his power over death and confirmed that Jesus' claims to be divine were true (Romans 1:4). The resurrection also fulfils Old Testament prophecies (e.g., Psalm 16:10) and gives believers hope that they too will be raised.

Question 5

What is the role of good works in salvation?

Accepted Answer

Most Christians agree that salvation is a gift from God, not earned by good works (Ephesians 2:8-9). However, good works are seen as evidence of genuine faith and a response to God's grace. Catholics and some Anglicans also believe that works, done in a state of grace, can increase one's reward in heaven, while many Protestants emphasise that works are the fruit of salvation, not the root.

Question 6

Why do Christians call Jesus 'the Lamb of God'?

Accepted Answer

This title (John 1:29) connects Jesus to the Old Testament sacrificial system, where lambs were offered to atone for sins. Jesus is seen as the perfect, final sacrifice that takes away the sin of the world. It also links to the Passover lamb, whose blood saved the Israelites from death in Egypt (Exodus 12). Thus, Jesus is both the sacrifice and the one who brings salvation.

Jesus Christ and salvation

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Key Marking Points