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Study 11 of 49

The Lamb Slain from the Foundation of the World

Substitution: the thread that runs from Eden to Revelation

Hands-free narration of this study — good for the car.

Synopsis

Every sacrifice from Abel onward pointed to one Lamb. Substitution is not a crude idea imported into Scripture; it is the plot line God Himself wrote so that when John said 'Behold the Lamb', a whole nation would understand. This unit follows the thread and defines what substitution means and does not mean.

Key points

  • The sacrificial system was a prophecy in blood, not a means of merit.
  • Substitution means the innocent bearing the penalty of the guilty by consent.
  • Christ is both the Lamb provided and the Priest who offers Him.

Key texts

  • Genesis 22:8
  • Isaiah 53:4-6
  • John 1:29
  • Revelation 13:8
  1. Comprehension

    1. Follow the Lamb theme from Eden to Revelation. What does the continuity prove?

  2. Scripture

    2. Read Genesis 22:8. How is Abraham's answer both faith and prophecy?

  3. Doctrinal Clarity

    3. Define substitution precisely, guarding it from caricature.

  4. Contrast

    4. Contrast the worshipper's lamb with the sinner's own remorse as a basis of pardon.

  5. Scripture

    5. Read Isaiah 53:6. What two movements does the verse describe?

  6. Doctrinal Clarity

    6. Read Revelation 13:8. Why is the Lamb called slain from the foundation of the world?

  7. Application

    7. What does it mean for you personally that God provided the sacrifice He required?

  8. Application

    8. How would you explain substitution to someone who calls it unjust?