Confidence in Christ's work is a central theme in Christian theology, emphasizing the believer's trust in the redemptive and transformative power of Jesus Christ. This confidence is rooted in the understanding of Christ's atoning sacrifice, His resurrection, and His ongoing intercession for believers.

Biblical Foundation

The New Testament provides a robust foundation for confidence in Christ's work. In Philippians 1:6, the Apostle Paul expresses assurance in the ongoing work of Christ in believers: "being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will continue to perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus." This verse underscores the belief that Christ's work in the believer is both initiated and completed by Him.

Hebrews 10:19-22 further elaborates on this confidence, stating, "Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by the new and living way opened for us through the curtain of His body, and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith." Here, the author of Hebrews highlights the believer's boldness to approach God, made possible through Christ's sacrificial death and His role as High Priest.

Christ's Atoning Sacrifice

Central to the believer's confidence is the atoning work of Christ on the cross. Romans 5:8-9 declares, "But God proves His love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Therefore, since we have now been justified by His blood, how much more shall we be saved from wrath through Him!" This passage affirms that Christ's death is the ultimate demonstration of God's love and the basis for the believer's justification and salvation.

The Resurrection

The resurrection of Jesus is another cornerstone of confidence in His work. In 1 Corinthians 15:17, Paul states, "And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins." The resurrection is the validation of Christ's victory over sin and death, providing believers with the assurance of their own future resurrection and eternal life.

Intercession and Advocacy

Believers also find confidence in Christ's ongoing intercession. Romans 8:34 assures, "Who is there to condemn us? For Christ Jesus, who died, and more than that was raised to life, is at the right hand of God—and He is interceding for us." This intercessory role of Christ provides believers with the assurance that they are continually supported and represented before the Father.

Transformation and Sanctification

Confidence in Christ's work extends to the believer's sanctification. In 2 Corinthians 5:17, Paul writes, "Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come!" This transformation is evidence of Christ's active work in the believer's life, fostering growth in holiness and conformity to His image.

Assurance of Salvation

The assurance of salvation is a significant aspect of confidence in Christ's work. In John 10:28-29, Jesus promises, "I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them out of My hand. My Father who has given them to Me is greater than all. No one can snatch them out of My Father’s hand." This assurance is rooted in the security provided by Christ's sovereign power and the Father's will.

Conclusion

Confidence in Christ's work is a profound and multifaceted doctrine that encompasses the believer's trust in the efficacy of Christ's atoning sacrifice, His resurrection, His intercession, and His transformative power in their lives. This confidence is not based on human merit but on the completed and ongoing work of Jesus Christ, providing believers with assurance, hope, and boldness in their faith journey.