The Glory of the Atonement: Biblical, Historical & Practical Perspectives

by Charles E. Hill (Editor), Frank A. James III (Editor)

The atonement is the crown jewel of Christian doctrine. And it is the responsibility of each generation of theologians to preserve its heritage, explore its facets and allow its radiance to illumine their day. With The Glory of the Atonement editors Charles E. Hill and Frank A. James III, along with a group of expert contributors, attempt to fulfill this trust at the dawn of a new millennium. The Glory of the Atonement is divided into three parts--biblical, historical and practical--with each section introduced by an overview essay. In part one evangelical biblical scholars explore the atonement within the contours of Scripture, looking first at the atonement in the Pentateuch, Psalm 51 and Isaiah 53, and then more closely at the major texts of the New Testament. In part two historical and systematic theologians weigh the atonement in the ancient, medieval and Reformation traditions. The primary perspective of the contributors is the Reformed tradition, which is further represented by essays on John Calvin, Herman Bavinck and Karl Barth. A timely capstone to this historical view is a stimulating consideration of the atonement and postmodernism. Finally, the implications of the atonement are brought home in part three with a look at the atonement in contemporary preaching and Christian living. Here is a full-course feast for ministers of the Word, a textbook for students of the Bible and theology, and a valuable resource for any theological library.

Genres: Theology, New Testament

495 pages, Paperback

First published March 30, 2004

Reviews

[Sam · Rating 4 out of 5]

Haven’t read all the chapters (I may have read around 80-85%?). Carson’s chapter on Romans 3 and George’s chapter on Luther were good.

I couldn’t easily find the definition of atonement. It would’ve been beneficial since the whole book is about the atonement. Great overview of PSA although this book is not for everyone.

[Cbarrett · Rating 4 out of 5]

If looking for a one volume treatment of the atonement that looks at the issue from the angles of old and new testament studies, systematic and historical theology, as well as practical theology - this is the go to volume. Includes essays from the following biblical and theological scholars:D. A. Carson, Richard Gaffin, Simon Kistemaker, Charles E. Hill, Timothy George, Joel Beeke, Kevin Vanhoozer, J.I. Packer, and Sinclair Ferguson. These essays are in honor of Roger Nicole, who himself has written extensively on penal substitutionary atonement.

[John]

What a great tool for pastors to consistently dip from throughout their pulpit career to faithful defend the gospel and substitutionary atonement. Richard Gaffin's chapter was my favorite. The "Great Gaffin."

[John Yelverton · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very interesting read that really opened my eyes to the amazing fact that there really are people who do not understand Christ's sacrifice. A truly great read.

[Paul Gesting · Rating 4 out of 5]

Many very good articles. Carson's is excellent.