Christianity A-Level Course: Theme 2C - Atonement

Overview

• The theme covers the topic of atonement in Christianity.
• Focus on understanding, comparing, and contrasting different theories of atonement.
• Important to recognize the strengths and weaknesses of each theory.

Introduction to Atonement

• Atonement involves characters sacrificing for others (e.g., films like "The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe," "Harry Potter," "Star Wars," "Saving Private Ryan").
• Ancient religions involved sacrifices to gods for favor, thanks, or forgiveness.
• Old Testament example: Abraham and Isaac (Genesis 22).
• Passover lamb story in Exodus 12.
• Day of Atonement rituals in Leviticus 16.

Key Concepts

• Atonement: Reconciliation with God, originally meant "at-one-ment."
• Propitiation: A pleasing offering that turns away God's wrath.
• Expiation: Clearing guilt, similar to serving punishment.

New Testament Perspective

• Jesus' death is both propitiation and expiation.
• Critiques Old Testament sacrifices as inadequate (Hebrews).

Atonement Models

1. Ransom Model

• Early Christian view: Humanity in sin is like being captive.
• Jesus' death as ransom paid to the devil.
• Critique: Gives Satan too much power, portrays God as a deceiver.

2. Debt Satisfaction Model (Anselm)

• Humanity owes a debt to God, not the devil.
• Jesus' sinless life pays the debt to God, restoring honor.
• Critique: Feudal concept, portrays God as a prideful overlord.

3. Penal Substitution Model

• Popular with Protestant Reformers.
• Jesus' death substitutes for humanity's deserved punishment.
• Critique: Suggests a wrathful God, potential split in the Trinity.

4. Christus Victor Model (Gustaf Aulén)

• Focuses on Jesus' victory over evil powers.
• Emphasizes liberation from evil rather than debt repayment.
• Critique: Downplays individual responsibility for sin.

5. Moral Example Model

• Jesus as a moral teacher and example for self-improvement.
• Critique: Suggests self-salvation, downplays the necessity of Jesus' death.

Evaluation of Models

• Consider if models portray God as cruel or tyrannical.
• Explore compatibility between models (e.g., Moral Example with Penal Substitution or Christus Victor).
• Some models focus on cosmic struggle vs. personal guilt.

Conclusion

• Understanding the different models and their implications on the perception of God and Jesus' role in atonement is crucial.
• Reflect on how these theories can be combined or contrasted to provide a comprehensive view of atonement in Christianity.

Ensure to review biblical references and key theological arguments when studying each model. Consider how these theories of atonement impact the understanding of justice, mercy, and the nature of God in Christian theology.