Core Doctrines of Reformed Theology: Limited Atonement

Jun 17, 2024

Core Doctrines of Reformed Theology: Limited Atonement

Introduction

  • Continuation of the study of Reformed theology
  • Focus on the controversial five points of Calvinism (TULIP)
  • Previously covered: Total Depravity (T) and Unconditional Election (U)
  • Current focus: Limited Atonement (L)

Limited Atonement

  • Most controversial and confusing of the five points
  • Often misunderstood by those within and outside Reformed Theology
  • Does NOT mean:
    • There is a limit on the value or merit of Christ's atonement
    • Gospel is not to be preached universally
  • Traditional understanding:
    • Atoning work of Christ is sufficient for all
    • Efficient only for those who believe and repent
    • Sufficient for all but efficient for some (distinguishes from universalism)

Key Questions

  • What was the purpose or design of God in sending Christ to die?
    • Was it to make salvation possible for everyone?
    • Or was it to ensure the salvation of the elect?
  • Reframing the term: Preferred terms
    • Definite redemption or definite atonement
    • Indicates that Christ's atonement is designed specifically for the elect

Scriptural Support and Controversy

  • Key passages often used to debate this doctrine:
    • Example: II Peter 3:8-9
    • "The Lord is not slack concerning His promise... not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance."
  • Interpretation issues:
    • The meaning of "willing" and "any"

Understanding the Will of God

  1. Decretive Will of God:
    • God's sovereign will that brings to pass whatever He decrees
    • If applied here, would imply universalism (contradicts particularism)
  2. Preceptive Will of God:
    • God's commandments (e.g., Ten Commandments)
    • People can disobey, so does not always come to pass
  3. Will of Disposition:
    • Reflects God's emotions (what pleases or grieves God)
    • Example: God does not delight in the death of the wicked
  • The interpretation depends on the context and the word "any"

Contextual Analysis of II Peter 3:9

  • Immediate context points to "us" (believers, the elect) rather than all humanity
  • Peter speaks to believers that God is longsuffering towards them
  • God's will is that none of "us" (the elect) should perish

Conclusion

  • Definite atonement focuses on God's design and purpose being effectively accomplished
  • Plan of redemption is eternal and perfectly executed to save God's people
  • God is not a mere spectator but sovereignly ensures the salvation of the elect through Christ's atonement