The Mosaic of Atonement
An Integrated Approach to Christ's Work
- Theology
- Publisher: Zondervan Academic (Zondervan)
- Published: 2019
FritzSearch.com earns a commission on purchases made through Bookshop.org links.
Publisher's Description
The Mosaic of Atonement offers a fresh and integrated approach to historic models of atonement. While modern treatments of the doctrine have tended toward either a defensive hierarchy, in which one model is singled out as most important, or a disconnected plurality, in which multiple images are affirmed but with no order of arrangement, this book argues for a reintegration of four famous "pieces" of atonement doctrine through the governing image of Christ-shaped mosaic. Unlike a photograph in which tiny pixels present a seamless blending of color and shape, a mosaic allows each piece to retain its recognizable particularity, while also integrating them in the service of a single larger image. If one stands close, one can identify individual squares of glass or tile that compose the greater picture. And if one steps back, there is the larger picture to be admired. Yet in the great mosaics of age-old Christian churches, the goal is not for viewers to construct the image, as in a puzzle, but to appreciate it. So too with this mosaic of atonement doctrine. While no one model is set above or against the others, the book notes particular ways in which the "pieces"--the feet, heart, head, and hands--mutually support one another to form a more holistic vision of Christ's work. "This is my body," Jesus said to his followers, and by reintegrating these oft-dismembered aspects of atonement, we will note fresh ways in which it was given for us.
Endorsements (5)
“Competing theories of the atonement jostle uncomfortably alongside one another in contemporary theology. McNall draws on Scripture and church history to creatively recraft each theological tile, showing that they seamlessly interlock. A portrait of the entire atoning Christ emerges—and he is beautiful.”
“together! This is an ideal primer for anyone wanting to get a grip on the dense debates about the nature of the atonement.”
“A mosaic portrays an image but does so by means of the unseen bond holding its many pieces in place. In The Mosaic of the Atonement McNall gives us a clear image of the work of Christ, composed of careful interaction with many of the figures and the topics that together make up this doctrine, but does so in a way that draws attention to the bonds holding these pieces together.”
“In this well-informed and very readable volume, Josh McNall gives us a lively and thorough treatment of the great Christian doctrine of the atonement. While deeply committed to core theological convictions, McNall exhibits catholicity of spirit and a concern for the proclamation of the gospel. The result is a wide-ranging study and provocative proposal that will be of interest to Christian ministers and students as well as scholars.”
“balanced treatment rejects both the extreme that makes penal substitution the one and only model and the opposite extreme, which neglects the biblical theme of judgement. The scholarly command of the literature and clear argumentation make this a valuable resource for teachers, students, and pastors alike.”
See something wrong on this page? Report a problem