Theology Terms Explained: “Penal Substitution”
In this series on the blog, we’re providing sound doctrine for everyday people by providing you with clear and simple definitions that will strengthen your theological foundation. Each article covers 4 categories including:
The Term – We lay out how it’s pronounced.
The Definition – We provide the Merriam-Webster definition and an everyday version.
The Biblical Connection – We show you where the term connects with Scripture.
Used in an Everyday Conversation – We use it in a basic conversation.
The Term
pe·nal sub·sti·tu·tion | \ ˈpē-nᵊl ˌsəb-stə-ˈtü-shən \
The Definition
Merriam-Webster (Adapted): Penal – relating to punishment for breaking the law. Substitution – the act of replacing one person or thing with another.
FTG’s Expanded Explanation:
Penal Substitution refers to the doctrine that Jesus Christ took the penalty for sin in our place. 'Penal' means He bore the punishment; 'substitution' means He stood in for us. This is the heart of the gospel: Jesus, the sinless Son of God, bore the wrath of God we deserved so that we could be forgiven.
Because God is just, sin must be punished. But because God is merciful, He provided a substitute. Jesus took the punishment we earned through sin, satisfying justice and making peace between God and all who trust in Him. Penal substitution is not merely one view of the cross—it is the view that upholds both God’s holiness and His love.
On the cross, Jesus didn’t just die as an example or martyr. He died as our substitute, taking what we deserved so we could receive what only He deserves.
The Biblical Connection
Isaiah 53:5 – “He was pierced for our transgressions...upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace.”
2 Corinthians 5:21 – “For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.”
1 Peter 2:24 – “He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness.”
Romans 3:25-26 – “God put [Christ] forward as a propitiation by his blood...so that he might be just and the justifier.”
Galatians 3:13 – “Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us.”
From Old Testament sacrificial types to the cross of Christ, Scripture consistently teaches that forgiveness requires a substitute. Penal substitution highlights the justice, mercy, and love of God in saving sinners without compromising His holiness.
Used in Everyday Conversation
“When I first understood penal substitution, it hit me—Jesus didn’t just die for sin in general. He died for my sin, in my place. That’s so personal and impacting.”
“A lot of people say, ‘Why couldn’t God just forgive everyone without the cross?’ But then you’re asking God to stop being just. Penal substitution shows how serious sin is—and how deep God’s love is.”
