For whom did Christ die? Was His death intended to save every person, or was it specifically for those chosen by God—the elect? Scripture provides clear answers, which we will examine.
The Two Main Views
There are two main perspectives on the question of Christ’s death:
- Universal Atonement: This view claims that Christ died for every individual, making salvation possible for all, but not certain for anyone. It argues that the effectiveness of Christ’s death depends on human faith and decision.
- Particular Redemption: This view teaches that Christ died specifically for the elect, securing their salvation. His death was effective and accomplished exactly what God intended.
The difference between these views is not trivial. It shapes how we understand God’s purpose in salvation, the power of Christ’s work, and the nature of grace.
Biblical Evidence for Particular Redemption
The Bible consistently teaches that Christ’s death was intended for a specific group of people—those whom the Father chose and gave to the Son. Let us examine key passages:
John 10:11, 15
“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep.”
Here, Jesus states that His death is specifically for His sheep—not for everyone. He later clarifies that some people are not His sheep (John 10:26). Thus, His atonement is particular, not universal.
Ephesians 5:25
“Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her.”
Christ’s love and sacrificial death are directed toward the church, His bride. The focus is on a specific group, not all humanity.
Matthew 1:21
“You shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins.”
The angel’s announcement specifies that Christ’s mission is to save His people, not all people universally.
Isaiah 53:11
“By His knowledge shall the righteous one, my servant, make many to be accounted righteous, and He shall bear their iniquities.”
The prophecy speaks of Christ bearing the sins of “many,” not all, emphasizing the particular scope of His work.
The Logical Consistency of Particular Redemption
If Christ died for all people, but not all are saved, it raises troubling questions:
- Did Christ’s death fail to accomplish its purpose?
- Is the effectiveness of His death dependent on human action, such as faith or repentance?
Such implications contradict the biblical teaching that salvation is entirely the work of God. Particular redemption, on the other hand, affirms the sufficiency and efficacy of Christ’s death. He died to secure the salvation of the elect, and His work cannot fail.
The Problem with Universal Atonement
The idea of universal atonement undermines the power and purpose of Christ’s death. If He died for everyone, then either:
- Everyone will be saved (universalism), which contradicts Scripture, or
- Christ’s death only makes salvation possible, leaving the outcome dependent on human effort.
Both of these options diminish God’s sovereignty and Christ’s achievement. Particular redemption, however, aligns with Scripture and ensures that salvation is a work of grace, not human merit.
Conclusion
The question, For whom did Christ die?, is answered clearly in Scripture: Christ died specifically for the elect. His death was not a general offer but a powerful act that secured the salvation of His people. This truth glorifies God’s grace and gives believers confidence that their salvation is fully accomplished in Christ.
In the next section, we will build on this foundation by exploring the nature and efficacy of Christ’s atonement, demonstrating why it is not only sufficient but also perfectly effective in achieving its purpose.
A Modern English translation of Book 1, Chapter 4 of John Owen’s The Death of Death in the Death of Christ.
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