The saving work of Jesus is central to the Christian faith. But how does it actually work? The subject of the Atonement has been wrestled with for millennia, theologians trying to make sense of the many ways that scripture explains the life, death, resurrection and ascension of Jesus. How does this God-man's existence translate to eternal salvation for humanity? And who's included? How far does it stretch?

Join Alex, Chris and Jo (and maybe some special guests along the way) as they examine the many theories and understandings of the Atonement, and what that can mean for us today.

Exemplary models of the atonement examine how Jesus' obedience to death might influence humanity to put aside evil and become obedient ourselves. In this episode we look at frameworks like moral example and the scapegoat model, and explore what relevance they might have in understanding Christ's work on the cross.

Resources:

• The Nature of the Atonement - edited by James K. Beilby,Paul R. Eddy
• Perspectives on the Extent of the Atonement - edited by Andrew David Naselli, Mark A. Snoeberger
• Mapping Atonement: The Doctrine of Reconciliation in Christian History and Theology - William G. Witt, Joel Scandrett
• What Did the Cross Accomplish? A Conversation about the Atonement - Simon Gathercole, Robert B. Stewart, N.T. Wright

Big thanks to Tim Whittle for editing and extra production on this podcast.

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