Faith
Debate Over Atonement: Faithful Perspectives Needed
Faith Facts
- John Mark Comer publicly questioned Penal Substitutionary Atonement (PSA), sparking concern in the Christian community.
- Andrew Rillera’s book, “Lamb of the Free,” emphasizes covenant and restoration over retributive justice in Christ’s sacrifice.
- Biblical evidence supports PSA as part of a rich tapestry explaining Jesus’s atonement and redemption for humanity.
John Mark Comer shared statements on social media, casting doubt on traditional PSA, prompting robust responses from fellow believers seeking theological clarity. His critique was influenced by Andrew Rillera’s book, which claims Jesus’s death should be understood less as punishment and more as a covenantal, purifying act.
Comer clarified his objection was to the overemphasis on violence in atonement, but offered limited theological substantiation for his position. Dr. Rillera believes the Torah sacrifices were about purification and restoration with God, not retributive penalty, and views the language around Christ’s death as metaphorical, focusing on liberation and covenant rather than substitution for sin’s penalty.
I respectfully maintain that the Bible reveals atonement as deeply connected to substitution and the covering of sins by Christ’s sacrificial blood.
“I seek not my own will but the will of him who sent me” (John 5:30).
The Scriptures affirm that Jesus fulfills Old Testament sacrificial themes, as seen on Yom Kippur and in Leviticus and Romans, where blood was required for atonement.
“For the life of the flesh is in the blood, and I have given it for you on the altar to make atonement for your souls, for it is the blood that makes atonement by the life” (Leviticus 17:11).
Paul’s writings use terms like apolytrōsis and hilastērion, reinforcing substitution and redemption as central to Christ’s work on the cross. These biblical concepts remind us of God’s gift—true redemption by faith alone through Christ alone.
Let us continue to anchor our understanding of salvation and atonement in the unchanging Word of God, upholding the fullness of Christ’s sacrifice and the depths of God’s mercy, for the sake of faith, family, and freedom.
Faith Facts
- Two children were killed and 17 injured during a shooting at Annunciation Catholic School, Minneapolis.
- Prominent faith leaders Pastor Greg Laurie and Rev. Franklin Graham spoke out in defense of prayer after critics questioned its effectiveness.
- Biblical principles and the promise of God’s comfort were emphasized in response to the tragedy.
As a city grieves a heartbreaking loss at Annunciation Catholic School, voices of faith are rising to affirm prayer’s essential place in times of crisis. Christian leaders urged Americans not to dismiss prayer, but to seek God’s presence and healing, especially when despair and tragedy strike.
“No truer thing could be said about our nation right now than this: we need prayer,” stated Pastor Greg Laurie in response to public criticism. He reminded believers that Christ sought God in prayer even during His greatest trial, and cited 2 Chronicles 7:14 as a call for national repentance and spiritual renewal.
Rev. Franklin Graham echoed these convictions, affirming that prayer connects believers directly with God, who sees and hears every plea. Quoting Hebrews 4:16, he encouraged Christians to approach the throne of grace with confidence, trusting in God’s power to give mercy and peace even amid loss.
Graham also pointed to the promise of Christ’s return, declaring that ultimate justice and peace are found in Him, the Prince of Peace. He uplifted the call to continue prayer as a vital tool for believers, and invited all—including critics—to discover the life-changing power of seeking God in faith.
Prayer remains the lifeline for Christian families and communities committed to faith, hope, and the promise of God’s comfort even in dark seasons. Now more than ever, believers are called to pray for healing and revival in our nation.
Faith Facts
- A court will soon decide on a possible retrial for the remaining five charges against former NOS leader Chris Brain.
- Chris Brain was previously found guilty on 17 counts of indecent assault but acquitted of 15 other charges.
- Church leaders have expressed sorrow and committed to supporting victims and improving safeguarding.
On Thursday, a hearing will determine if there will be a retrial for five unresolved charges against former priest Chris Brain, who led the Nine O’Clock Service (NOS) until his 1995 resignation amid serious allegations.
This follows Brain’s conviction for 17 indecent assaults and acquittal of other charges, while the jury could not agree on one rape charge and four additional assault counts.
Prosecutors described NOS as a “cult,” exposing the harm caused by violating the trust and wellbeing of young worshipers.
“We are truly sorry,” stated Bishop Joanne Grenfell, emphasizing the lasting damage inflicted and the importance of strong, faithful leadership.
Bishop Pete Wilcox offered an unreserved apology for past failings, reaffirming the Church’s duty to protect its community with biblical integrity and care.
Christian families must remain vigilant, ensuring their churches uphold accountability, integrity, and Christ-centered values in all leadership.
Faith Facts
- Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s engagement has sparked widespread celebration and underscores enduring ideals about marriage.
- Research reveals that nearly nine in ten young people in relationships express a longing for matrimony, regardless of background.
- There remains a concerning financial divide, with marriage rates much lower among the poorest compared to wealthier groups.
The engagement of Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce is a reminder of the deep-rooted desire for lasting commitment among younger people. Christian perspectives emphasize marriage as a covenant that honors God, family, and community.
Harry Benson from the Marriage Foundation highlights the importance of making marriage accessible to all, invoking biblical principles of fidelity and unity. Even as today’s culture often overlooks traditional values, faith teaches us to uphold the sanctity of marriage as a blessing for individuals and society.
“Regardless of wealth, the psychology behind marriage – the desire to find reliable love, love we can trust, is what most couples want.”
Let’s pray for leaders and policymakers to remove barriers and uphold marriage as a cornerstone of a healthy and God-honoring nation.
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