Sharyn,
It’s too bad that this discussion form has been void of discussion for awhile. Maybe we can invigorate some discussion again on this important topic of atonement.

I agree that the Biblical understanding of atonement, although multivalent in meaning, has nothing to do with Child abuse. But I will challenge Sharyn’s assumption that Jesus had to die a perfect death. Firstly their seems no evidence that there was anything about the crucifixion that of Christ was perfect. It was shameful and considered to be a curse (Deut 21:23, Gal 3:13). Secondly, we must remember that atonement in the temple is not bestowed vicariously by the death of another being, but by the application of blood which is a symbol of life (this is discussed in earlier submissions). Atonement is a result of life. I suspect that Jesus’ death was a result of his commitment to life, not his commitment to death.

It is fair to say that the N.T. writers were not exactly clear themselves on how exactly Jesus Christ atones for our sins, but we do know that the answer is found in the LIFE of Jesus Christ. The one whose LIFE could not be contained by the powers of time, death, or the law. In breaking these barriers (metaphysical, biological, social/relgious…among others)God shows that we were mistaken in our assumptions about God. God actually can be near sin. God actually can be near us. God actually is near us.

I think the next question then is not how does God atone, but how do we experience atonement? How does God’s nearness to me change things?

I invite your comments.