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
- Gallup data shows ‘nones’ at 24% in 2025, up from 21-22% recently and 2% in 1948.
- Only 47% of adults call religion ‘very important,’ down from 70-75% in 1950s-1960s.
- Highly religious groups persist: Republicans, Protestants, black adults, seniors 65+, Southerners.
America faces a spiritual crisis as fewer embrace faith central to our patriotic foundations. Biblical morality must guide us against this drift toward individualization over church community.
Younger generations reject organized religion, fueling decline via generational replacement and low service attendance.
“Americans’ relationship with religion continues to evolve, marked by fewer adults describing religion as central to their lives, rising religious nonaffiliation and persistently low levels of religious service attendance,” Gallup senior editor Megan Brenan noted.
While religion endures deeply among Republicans, Protestants, black adults, elders, and Southerners, we must revive national commitment to Christian values safeguarding family and freedom.
Stand firm in faith—share this vital report to awaken hearts and defend America’s heritage!
Skip worldly beaches and resorts for drivable destinations that honor faith, family, and freedom.
These three spots blend Christian heritage, historic American grit, and wholesome values for uplifting getaways.
Faith Facts
- Ave Maria, Florida: Master-planned Catholic town built around Ave Maria University features a stunning Roman Catholic church with Annunciation sculpture by Marton Varo, surrounded by walkable piazza, cafes, and family festivals.
- Durango, Colorado: Railroad-era mountain town founded in 1880 boasts Victorian downtown on National Register, Durango & Silverton steam train through San Juan Mountains, plus hiking in national forest and ancient cliff dwellings at Mesa Verde.
- Columbia, Missouri: Vibrant college city anchored by University of Missouri’s historic Francis Quadrangle, plus Stephens College with Eero Saarinen chapel and Columbia College tied to Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), offering walkable downtown with public art and events.
Pack up the family van for these God-honoring escapes that build lasting bonds and renew patriotic spirits amid Biblical-inspired settings.
Faith Facts
- Hid leprosy from family fearing rejection; endured violence after seeking children’s education funds.
- Self-Help Group revealed abuse unacceptable; gained confidence, income, and spoke against mistreatment.
- Now Vice-President, husband supports her; teaches sons respect, inspires daughters’ empowerment.
Dullari’s journey began with a leprosy diagnosis, secrecy, and abuse.
It later led to community leadership that exemplifies Biblical strength and family restoration through Christian missions.
The Leprosy Mission’s Dignity First project in Nepal trains women like her.
It fosters self-care, advocacy, and sustainable farming rooted in godly dignity.
Stand with faith-driven efforts upholding family values and freedom from poverty.
Subscribe to Faith and Freedom Report for more testimonies of God’s work.
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