I’ve often thought the Israelites of Jesus’ day must have been a fickle bunch as evidenced by their opposite reactions to Him. One day, they hail Him as king; 5 days later, they cry out for His crucifixion. What else could explain such a sudden change of heart? But as …
Well…actually…whether you find the Christian walk difficult or easy…it doesn’t call into question your salvation. Your salvation is based upon Christ’s work…not your experience. But, we have often been led to believe that this walk will be difficult. But, is it? Must it be? Is the Christian life supposed to …
Read more “If you find it difficult to be a Christian, maybe you aren’t one”
The Christus Victor view of the atonement is also referred to as the ransom view. Several scriptures also speak of Jesus’ life being a ransom. “The son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Mk. 10:45, ESV …
Read more “Jesus was a ransom for many…but who was the captor?”
John Calvin, and Anselm before him, and every theologian since, have made sincere efforts to understand what the Bible is saying. And just like everyone of us, they were influenced by their own culture and preexisting paradigms. Those lenses affected the way they understood Scripture. Then their theories have influenced …
Read more “Biblical “proof” for a punitive or appeasement aspect to atonement?”
Christ’s death on the cross that atoned for our sins didn’t happen in a vacuum…it wasn’t an isolated event that was devoid of any historical contextual connection. It meant something to the people of the day. It was foreshadowed…they knew what they were seeing because of their history. There are …
Read more “The atonement…no wrath, no appeasement, no punishment”