THE HEALING MODEL OF THE ATONEMENT
Message by Josh Mutter – March 3, 2024
The atonement is the work of Jesus through his life, death and resurrection to reconcile humanity with God.
SERIES BIG IDEA: What Jesus accomplished on the cross is so big that we need different perspectives on the atonement to appreciate what Jesus has done for us and for our world.
HEALING MODEL: The healing view of the atonement holds that through Jesus’ death and resurrection, spiritual healing and restoration occur for individuals and creation.
Isaiah 53:5 NIV But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.
Matthew 8:16-17 NIV When evening came, many who were demon-possessed were brought to him, and he drove out the spirits with a word and healed all the sick. This was to fulfil what was spoken through the prophet Isaiah: ‘He took up our infirmities and bore our diseases.’
A. Outline of Healing Model
1. Sin is a spiritual sickness that infects all of our lives.
Romans 3:23a NIV For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.
2. Jesus is the great physician who heals us from the infection of sin
Isaiah 53:5 NIV But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.
3. Jesus’ death and resurrection results in our reconciliation with God.
1 Peter 2:24 NIV “He himself bore our sins” in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; “by his wounds you have been healed.”
4. Transformation is the result of Jesus healing our sin.
Romans 12:2 NIV Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
B. Cons of Understanding the Atonement as Healing
1. It lacks clarity about how Jesus’ sacrifice results in reconciliation
2. It may oversimplify complex theological issues
C. Pros of Understanding the Atonement as Healing
1. It gives us a different perspective on sin
2. It emphasizes God’s love and grace
3. It is connected to the biblical theme of Shalom
You can listen to the sermon on YouTube here.
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