A quick
Google search of Atonement Theory yields at least seven explanations for what happened
today. They range from ransom to penal substitution to satisfaction and on and
on. Add to the mix the Franciscan theory-crucifixion as preeminent example of
God’s love reaching out to us-and we end up with a bewildering array of explanations
for the cross. The Bible itself isn’t quite so confusing. Paul says in Romans “If
you confess with your mouth Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart God raised Him
from the dead you will be saved”. Two key points here.
Jesus is Lord. This confirms what the
Bible has been saying since at least Genesis 3.
2.
Raised from the dead. The Romans
loved crucifying people. Without Sunday, Friday is meaningless; Jesus is just
another crucified Jew. Resurrection is everything.
Of course,
the Bible also says Jesus died for our sins according to the scriptures. So,
what does that mean? Well, pick a theory. Or a combination of theories. Don’t
forget the Franciscans-think John 3:16. I firmly believe the technical aspects
of what occurred Friday are beyond our ability (at least, my ability) to
understand, and certainly not worth arguing over. The important things are
simply Friday happened. Sunday happened. We can all participate in the Sunday
life even if we don’t fully understand Friday’s death. Let it be so.
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