Atoning Atonement

"The Spirit and the Kingdom" (ch.9) is up next and will be discussed 11.19. If you are itching for some follow up on today's extent of the atonement conversation, here's a paper I wrote a while back that marks my transition to embracing an atonement that atones. 

Did He or Didn't He?

Did Jesus make propitiation possible or did he actually make propitiation? That's a big question with big implications and we will be discussing it as we talk about the extent of the atonement on Tuesday, November 12. Read pp.208-228 of Horton's Pilgrim Theology where the topic of ascension will also be covered.

"General atonement is like a great wide bridge with only half an arch; it does not go across the stream: it only professes to go half way; it does not secure the salvation of anybody" (Spurgeon).

Here's the Al Mohler address delivered at BYU that I referenced Nov. 5. It is a great example of tactful truth telling that does not compromise. HT to Chad Hansen for sending the link.

The Work of Christ

And now for the crux of the matter which is the work of Christ! Both the active and passive obedience of Christ are in view in the first half or so of ch.8 (pp.191-208). We will cover this on Tuesday, November 5th. We will NOT be discussing the whole chapter. Such grand themes considering the grandeur of the grand one, Jesus Christ, the righteous!

Don't Be a Bellarmine!

Bellarmine, the Roman Catholic arch rival of Protestantism understood that the imputation of Christ's righteousness was the foundation for justification through faith in Christ alone. Therefore he rejected it. Unfortunately some Protestants such as N.T. Wright, Federal Vision, and certain dispensationalists are joining Bellarmine in their denials and are thereby assaulting the very foundation of justification. Here is a paper on this important gospel topic protesting Protestants denying the gospel foundation of imputation. 

The Mass Atones?

"As often as the sacrifice of the Cross by which 'Christ our Pasch has been sacrificed' is celebrated on the alter, the work of our redemption is carried out" (Catechism). Is this true? Is it likewise true that the Mass atones for our sins? To learn more about Rome's claims and the importance of the issues, read chapter 11. Also read chapter 12 for a consideration of purgatory (and we don't mean Purgatory the ski resort!). So read 11-12 for Tuesday, May 24th.