Penal Substitution Theory

Penal Substitution Theory is a Christian explanation of atonement that suggests Jesus' death was necessary to satisfy God's justice. It teaches that humans have sinned and deserve punishment, but Jesus took that punishment on himself, effectively substituting himself for us. This act of sacrifice restores the relationship between God and humanity, allowing believers to receive forgiveness and salvation. Essentially, it emphasizes that Jesus' death was a legally just punishment that bore the consequences humans owed for their sins.