What does the word propitiation mean?

Propitiation basically means to appease someone or to settle something.  This word is found three times within the Bible, and they all refer to Jesus and His work on the cross.  God made Jesus our propitiation in that His blood fulfilled the righteous law of Heaven to make payment for sin (Romans 3:24-25).  God showed His love for us by sending Jesus to be able to take our place and therefore appease the righteous wrath of God (1 John 4:10).  And He did this not only for those who are saved but for everyone in the whole world (1 John 2:2).  Jesus’ blood has paid for everyone’s sins; however, we still have to accept the gift of salvation in order to receive it.