Here is the video from our JESUS WINS discussion on the nature and result of sin. We are taking a look at Rob Bell’s new book LOVE WINS and the conversation that’s come out of it here in my neck of the woods, and comparing it to the Holy Scriptures and historic Christian faith.
Our next discussion will cover the back story to the Jesus one by taking a look at God’s mission from the very beginning in Gen 3 to rescue humanity and re-create the world, even before God invaded the earth in Jesus Christ. If you’re in Grand Rapids and have been interested in or confused by the LOVE WINS conversation, join us July 14 at 7pm at the Eberhard Center for what should be another great conversation.
There are other atonement theories available within the Christian tradition? It sounds as though penal substitution is your theory of choice, no?
Yes I know there are. And if you'd read my book you'd know I hold three in tension 🙂 Christus Victor. Recapitulation. Subsitutionary Atonement. I get annoyed at the cackles calls decrying psa, which go hand in hand with an incredibly low view of sin and coming judgment. I mean, if we're really not all that bad off, God really isn't all that offended by our badness, and there really isn't any need to atone for our badness, then why do we need a sacrifice to pay our price, in our place, right?-jeremy—————————————————publishing @ <a href="http://www.nlbooks.netwww.nlbooks.net<br />blogging @ <a href="http://www.novuslumen.netwww.novuslumen.net<br />praying @ dailyoffice.novuslumen.net
Sorry, not trying to cackle. And of course I know you know there are other views. That said, while Love Wins may not speak of sin in the language you prefer, Rob lays out the biblical narrative in a very similar manner as you. So, I guess here is my real question. Let's say for the sake of argument that Rob is a Christian universalist, what is wrong that? Why can't a Christian be a universalist? Or can they, in your view? Just wondering.
To answer your comment / question personally, which I hope wasn't intending to be a slide to anyone, I don't have a high view of sin and I don't believe Christ's death is not merely about atonement. Though it may be that it isn't just about atonement for you either? But, what is wrong with options within Christianity? Why should we be so overly fascinated about our differences? Why does Mars Hill not preach a Gospel at all?