PART 4: RETHINKING THE ATONEMENT

In Part 1 of this book we looked at ten problems that I and others have with the doctrine of Penal Substitution. In Part 2 we examined the alleged foundation for this doctrine in the character of God but found no evidence in Scripture that either the holiness, justice or wrath of God make it necessary for a substitute to be punished in our place. In Part 3 we examined three major tenets of the doctrine and again found no Scriptural support for any of them, at least as they are understood by the proponents of Penal Substitution.

In Part 4 we turn to what, for me, is the nub of the matter. Once we have removed our PSA glasses (see the end of the previous chapter) how should we understand Christ's atoning work for us? If He was not standing in our place as our substitute, then what was He doing and how does it benefit us?

Here, again, is the main thesis of this book: On the cross Jesus was not being punished in our place. He was making atonement on our behalf. In this section we will consider this understanding of the atonement and how it differs from the Penal Substitutionary view. 

We will consider, firstly, what is involved in making atonement. Secondly, we will consider how the death of Jesus makes atonement for our sins. Thirdly, we will consider the extent of the atonement and whose sins are covered by it. And fourthly, we will consider what the atonement was designed to accomplish from God's point of view - namely, that we might be justified by faith, reconciled to Him, redeemed from our slavery to sin and transformed into the image of His Son.

That's a lot to get through - so come with me and let's get started!