"Some people today may find it compelling that some Great Cosmic Transaction took place on that day 1,980 years ago, that God’s wrath burned against his son instead of against me. I find that version of atonement theory neither intellectually compelling, spiritually compelling, nor in keeping with the biblical narrative.
Instead, Jesus' death offers life because in Christianity, and in Christianity alone, the God and Creator of the universe deigned to become human, to be tempted, to reach out to those who had been de-humanized and restore their humanity, and ultimately to die in solidarity with every one of us. Yes, he was a sacrifice. Yes, he was “sinless.” But thank God, Jesus was also human.
The hope he offers is that, by dying on that cross, the eternal Trinity became forever bound to my humanity. The God of the universe identified with me, and I have the opportunity to identify with him.
Today, and every day, I hang with him on that cross."
– Tony Jones from his blog at Belief.net.
(HT: Zach Lind)
Friday, April 10, 2009
Good Friday...
Posted by JD at 8:39 PM
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9 comments:
this sounds a whole lot like what I've been saying the past few weeks.
I am a proponent of Moral Influence theory a'la Abelard.
The death of Christ is the ultimate submission of himself in humility and service.
right on.
I would say that I fashion together the Moral Influence theory and Christus Victor views of atonement.
The sad thing is that for the longest time I didn't know that there were other versions of atonement. I thought that Penal Substitutionary Atonement was the only option. Thank goodness for Greg Boyd and podcasts.
Is this where you stand nowadays?
Josh, are you talking to me?
And if so, are you referring to my rejection of penal sub. atonement theory?
PS-which Josh is this? lol...
Lol - it's Howerton. Sorry I haven't dropped by in awhile, JD. Been really busy and usually like to keep an eye on what you're doing and thinking here at the blog.
Yes - was just curious about your thoughts on this statement.
JD - my bad. Just read through some of the recent evolution in your thought that I'd missed by being away.
While I'm genuinely saddened to read some of the stuff, I'll always respect the voraciousness of your pursuit and be challenged by it.
If you're ever in the Nashville area, would LOVE to hang out again sometime. I still have the taste of a great time hanging out with you after Passion at Chili's a few years ago.
Josh-You're a busy man! No apologies needed for not making time on a blog, lol. I read yours about once a week to see what's going on with you. Your videos always crack me up--ie, "why do I have a soul patch?"
I'm curious: Why does the "evolution" of my thoughts and ideas sadden you?
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