Description
The post-modern society is so focussed on the internal life of the individual that it makes the significance of the cross a difficult concept to grasp. Even Christians are trying to find alternative ways of explaining it - some have abandoned the concept of atonement entirely.
Jesus, though, is far more than a victim. When God receives and approves the condemned Jesus he transcends the world of oppressor and victim to create a new humanity, capable of new kinds of relationships. Atonement speaks of a transition from brokenness, alienation and the death of love to a place of restoration, healing, and wholeness. A place that holds out hope for deepening friendships and mutual confidence - the exact same things the post-modern mind is lacking, and is looking for.
About Paul Wells
Paul Wells is emeritus professor of the Faculté Jean Calvin in Aix–en–Provence, France and editor of the international journal Unio Cum Christo. After working in France as a theological educator for many years, he now lives in Liverpool. He has published many books in French including a new translation of Calvin’s ‘Institutes’ in 2009 and more recently a two–volume theology.
