The Purpose of Christ’s Death
To understand the purpose of Christ’s death, we must first establish its ultimate goal. The Synoptics and Johannine Literature reveal that Christ’s death is meant to display the glory of God definitively. Jesus accomplishes this by doing the work of the Father, which is to effectively bring about the salvation of those whom the Father has given him.
Glorifying the Father
Jesus’ actions are driven by his desire to glorify the Father. In John 1:14, we see that the incarnation of Jesus allows us to behold God’s glory, full of grace and truth. Jesus makes God known, providing detailed information about God’s nature and character. As the Word-made-flesh, Jesus is the fullest revelation of God, and everything he says and does is a manifestation of God’s glory.
The Sign of God’s Glory
The ultimate sign of God’s glory is the death, resurrection, and ascension of Christ. This event sets in motion the chain of events that will lead to the ultimate expression of God’s glory. Jesus’ death is not just a sacrifice; it is a demonstration of God’s power and love.
Accomplishing the Father’s Work
Jesus agrees to display the glory of the Father by redeeming the people that the Father has given to him. This agreement is rooted in the intra-Trinitarian communion shared by the Father and the Son from all eternity. In John 6:22-58, Jesus explains the work that the Father has given him to do, which includes losing none of those whom the Father has given him and raising them up on the last day.
Particularism in the Atonement
Contrary to some views, the atonement is not general, but particular. Jesus does not die for everyone, but for a specific group of people whom the Father has given to him. In John 6:37-44, we see that the Father gives a specific group of people to the Son, and the Son comes down from heaven to do the Father’s will. The Father’s will is for the Son to lose none of those whom he has given to him, but to raise them up on the last day.
The Extent of the Atonement
The extent of the atonement is a subject of ongoing debate. Some argue that Jesus died for everyone, while others believe that he died only for the elect. The biblical evidence suggests that Jesus died for a particular group of people, often referred to as “his people” or “the many.” In Matthew 1:21, we see that Jesus will save his people from their sins. In Matthew 20:28 and 26:28, Jesus gives his life as a ransom for many.
Jesus’ Sheep
In John 10:11-18, Jesus presents himself as the Good Shepherd who lays down his life for his sheep. These sheep are not just anyone, but a specific group of people whom the Father has given to the Son. Jesus knows his sheep, and they know him. He lays down his life for them, and they will share in the intra-Trinitarian love and glory.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the
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