The Language of the Cross: Redemption (5)

In the previous installations of the series “The Language of the Cross” we have explored different biblical descriptors, which have filled our view of the cross with more precision. This final chapter aims to continue to that end as we consider the cross as a work of redemption. Mark 10:45 clearly reminds us that the [...]

Language of the Cross: Reconciliation (4)

It would be unnecessary to consider the notion of the cross as reconciliation if we did not presume a disrupted relationship, for what healthy relationship needs reconciliation? However, as previous posts have already mentioned, creatures have suffered a massive disruption in relations with their Creator because of sin (Is. 59:2). So reconciliation can be summarized [...]

The Language of the Cross: Propitiation (3)

In this next installment of the series, The Language of the Cross, we come to another word that is crucial for us to understand what really happened on the cross: Propitiation. In short, propitiation is the idea of averting God’s anger by way of an offering. Bound by His righteous character, God’s response to sin [...]

The Language of the Cross: Sacrifice (2)

If you have read the OT you have undoubtedly come across the gruesome descriptions of the ceremonial sacrifices commanded under the Ceremonial law (Leviticus 4, 16). The gist of these sacrifices is that God, who rightly has wrath towards sin, instituted the sacrificial system as a temporary determent of the payment of sin until later [...]

The Language of the Cross: Overview (1)

My stated goal in the forthcoming series is to describe as clearly and briefly as possible the “nature of the atonement,” or what I am labeling The Language of the Cross. I will give a brief overview in this first post and then briefly expound upon each descriptor in future posts. I will explore four [...]