If there were one verse that captures the very heart of the gospel, it’s this:

“For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.”
— 2 Corinthians 5:21

This verse contains the most glorious truth ever revealed to mankind. In just a few words, Paul summarizes the finished work of Christ and the divine transaction that makes salvation possible. It is the great exchange—where Jesus took what we deserved, so we could receive what only He deserved.

🔄 The Divine Exchange

• “He made Him…” — God the Father initiated this plan. Jesus willingly submitted to it. Salvation is not man ascending to God—it is God coming down to us.
• “…who knew no sin…” — Christ was completely sinless. He never once transgressed the law. He was holy, blameless, undefiled—yet fully human.
• “…to be sin for us…” — Jesus was not a sinner, but He was treated as one. At the cross, He bore the weight of all sin. He was made to be the sin offering, satisfying the justice of God on our behalf.
• “…that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.” — In exchange, we—who were unrighteous—receive Christ’s righteousness. Not our own. Not earned. Not improved. But imputed, by grace, through faith.

✝️ This Is the Gospel

The gospel is not about behavior modification, law-keeping, or religious performance. It is about substitution. Christ stood in our place, bearing our judgment, and now we stand in His place—righteous, accepted, forgiven, and secure.

If you ever doubt whether God loves you, look at the cross. If you wonder whether your salvation is secure, look at the empty tomb. If you forget who you are, remember this verse: You are the righteousness of God in Christ.

🔗 Watch the Video: “The Heart of the Gospel of Grace”

Want to see this verse explained clearly and passionately? Watch the short video below—and share it with someone who needs the hope and truth of the gospel today.