Atonement in Christianity

Atonement in Christianity is the reconciliation of humanity with God through Jesus Christ, especially through his death and resurrection. Christian traditions differ on how Christ’s saving work achieves this reconciliation.

Substitutionary atonement: Atonement theories in which Christ bears consequences or punishment due to humanity’s sin. This influential model explains reconciliation through Christ taking humanity’s place.
Sin in Christianity: In Christian thought, sin is wrongdoing and estrangement from God, understood as both personal acts and a condition of humanity. Atonement addresses the rupture and guilt associated with sin.
Isaiah 53: A passage in the Book of Isaiah describing a servant who suffers and bears the wrongdoing of others. Christians have read its suffering servant as a scriptural pattern for Jesus’ death.
Universal reconciliation: The belief that God will ultimately reconcile every person to God. It asks whether Christ’s reconciling work ultimately includes all humanity.
Justification in Christianity: The Christian doctrine of how sinners are put in right relationship with God. Atonement accounts explain the basis on which justification is possible.
Christus Victor: A model of atonement in which Christ defeats sin, death, and the powers that enslave humanity. It presents the cross and resurrection as victory over forces separating humanity from God.
Resurrection of Jesus: The Christian claim that God raised Jesus from the dead after his crucifixion. Atonement is commonly understood through the death and resurrection together, not the death alone.
Last Supper: The final meal Jesus shared with his disciples before his arrest and crucifixion. Its language of covenant and Jesus’ body and blood shaped Christian interpretations of his death.
Limited atonement: A Reformed doctrine that Christ’s saving work was intended effectively for the elect rather than every person. It sharply contrasts with accounts that describe Christ’s atonement as intended for all.
Christian soteriology: The branch of Christian theology concerned with salvation and its means, effects, and scope. Atonement is a central explanation within the broader Christian doctrine of salvation.

Linked from 20 pages