Did the Earliest Christians Really Believe in Substitutionary Atonement (and Even Imputation)? One Important Example
In a prior article (here), I explored how the second-century work the Epistle to Diognetus clearly affirmed the full divinity of Jesus–a doctrine that some say did not come around until the fourth century. I continue this theme by exploring yet another doctrine that some suggest is a late invention: substitutionary atonement.
The average internet-level narrative goes something like this: the earliest Christians had no clear understanding for why Jesus died on the cross and what it accomplished. The idea of a substitutionary atonement is a late invention designed to retroactively explain the (otherwise embarrassing) death of Jesus. In fact, it was not until Anselm’s Cur Deus Homo … Continue reading...
No Holy Spirit, No Scripture
There is an abiding perception in the Christian world that Reformed folks do not talk much about the Holy Spirit. If you want to be in a church where the Holy Spirit plays a key role, so it is argued, then you will need to go in a charismatic or pentecostal direction.
If one is interesting in speaking in tongues or hearing modern-day prophecies, then I suppose this perception may be somewhat accurate. But, this does not mean that Reformed folks do not talk about the Spirit. On the contrary, the history of Reformed theology demonstrates a keen interest in the work and ministry of the third person of the … Continue reading...
Reflections on PCA General Assembly: Where Were All the Books?
This past June I had a delightful time in Greenville, SC, attending the annual PCA General Assembly. This was a great opportunity to do denominational business, renew old ministry acquaintances, and to be rejuvenated for the year to come.
But, there was one thing missing. Books.
Just to be clear, there were some books at GA. The CEP had arranged for a book area in the back of the assembly hall which had an assortment of titles on a variety of topics. And there were a few scattered books tables here and there.
But, it was the very limited amount of books that was noteworthy. Compared to other gatherings around … Continue reading...