Lecture on Atonement in the Gospels

Introduction

• Prayer for understanding and perseverance in living out God's truth.
• Discussion on the prevalence of selfie culture.
• Introduction to the topic: Atonement in the Gospels, often overlooked in favor of Pauline theology.

Atonement in Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John

• Common Misconceptions: Gospels are seen as backstory to Paul's theology.
• Gospels' Unique Contributions:
  • Mark 10:45: Jesus' mission to serve and give his life as a ransom.
  • John 3:16: Belief in Christ leading to eternal life.
  • Incorrect beliefs that Luke lacks atonement theology.
• Kingdom of God: Often misunderstood as a place rather than God's rule on earth.
• Story Continuation: Gospels continue the Old Testament narrative, focusing on God's kingdom and Jesus as its fulfillment.

The Role of Jesus' Death

• Historical and Theological Reasons: Dual answers to why Jesus died.
• Gospels' Approach: Tell historical story to answer theological questions.
• Forgiveness of Sins: Central to Jesus' mission and message.

Gospels as Historical and Theological Texts

• Historical Context: Jesus as the fulfillment of Israel's story.
• Kingdom Inauguration: Gospels describe the beginning of God's rule on earth.
• Evil's Climax: The gospels narrate the accumulation of evil against Jesus.
• Redefinition of Power: Jesus' life and death as a new model of leadership.

Jesus' Crucifixion and Resurrection

• Substitutionary Atonement: Jesus as the innocent substitute for the guilty.
• Christus Victor: Jesus' death as victory over evil forces.
• Narrative Over Doctrine: Importance of understanding the story over abstract theological concepts.
• Role of the Church: Living out the cruciform life exemplified by Jesus.

Theological Implications

• Victory and Substitution: Interplay between victory over evil and Jesus' substitutionary role.
• Forgiveness and Kingdom: Forgiveness of sins as an integral part of the kingdom narrative.
• Suffering and Salvation: Acts demonstrates the cruciform mission of the church.

Conclusion

• Example and Mission: Jesus' life as a model for Christian living.
• Prayer: Reflection on Jesus' sacrifice and call to live out his mission in the world.