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May 18, 2025: Atonement, Part II
Atonement, Part II: Moral Influence & Ransom Theories
This Sunday, we’re diving into two theories of the cross: the Moral Influence Theory and the Ransom Theory. Does Jesus’ life and death primarily inspire us to live compassionately, as a divine model of love? Or did Christ’s sacrifice act as a cosmic transaction, “paying a debt” to liberate humanity from Satan’s grip?
We’ll unpack the historical roots of these ideas, their contrasts, and their implications for how we understand God’s character. Does a God who bargains with Satan align with radical grace? Can a focus on moral example empower - or burden -our pursuit of justice and mercy? Together, we’ll explore how each theory nurtures - or undermines human flourishing, justice, and our capacity to trust a God who is love.
Join us as we re-examine ancient ideas for a modern world, seeking a faith that deepens our love for others and our awe of a God who meets us in struggle and solidarity. All voices, doubts, and curiosity welcome!
Discussion Questions
HEAD
- Can a single atonement theory fully capture the meaning of the cross, or is a synthesis necessary?
- What biblical passages support or complicate these atonement theories for you?
HEART
- Do you tend to view the cross as a divine rescue mission or a call to participate in liberation, contributing to blessing and flourishing? How does that shape your daily life?
- Which theory (Ransom or Moral Influence) resonates more deeply with your experience of God’s love? Why?
HANDS
- Where have you seen "ransom theology" (e.g., blaming evil forces) used to avoid addressing systemic injustice? How can you challenge that?
- How can you embody "self-giving love" in a way that confronts injustice without perpetuating violence?
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By Elevation Waterloo Church
4
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Atonement, Part II: Moral Influence & Ransom Theories
This Sunday, we’re diving into two theories of the cross: the Moral Influence Theory and the Ransom Theory. Does Jesus’ life and death primarily inspire us to live compassionately, as a divine model of love? Or did Christ’s sacrifice act as a cosmic transaction, “paying a debt” to liberate humanity from Satan’s grip?
We’ll unpack the historical roots of these ideas, their contrasts, and their implications for how we understand God’s character. Does a God who bargains with Satan align with radical grace? Can a focus on moral example empower - or burden -our pursuit of justice and mercy? Together, we’ll explore how each theory nurtures - or undermines human flourishing, justice, and our capacity to trust a God who is love.
Join us as we re-examine ancient ideas for a modern world, seeking a faith that deepens our love for others and our awe of a God who meets us in struggle and solidarity. All voices, doubts, and curiosity welcome!
Discussion Questions
HEAD
- Can a single atonement theory fully capture the meaning of the cross, or is a synthesis necessary?
- What biblical passages support or complicate these atonement theories for you?
HEART
- Do you tend to view the cross as a divine rescue mission or a call to participate in liberation, contributing to blessing and flourishing? How does that shape your daily life?
- Which theory (Ransom or Moral Influence) resonates more deeply with your experience of God’s love? Why?
HANDS
- Where have you seen "ransom theology" (e.g., blaming evil forces) used to avoid addressing systemic injustice? How can you challenge that?
- How can you embody "self-giving love" in a way that confronts injustice without perpetuating violence?