Systematic Theology (Vol 2) - Hodge - XL - Chapter 9 (Theories of the atonement) concluded

Required reading
Systematic Theology by Charles Hodge (Vol 2) (Available from Amazon or free here) - Conclude Chapter 9 (Theories of the atonement).

My summary
Today we finish reading about the various theories of the atonement.

Our last theory for discussion is the mystical theory.  Hodge himself provides a good summary of it at the beginning of the section:
'The fourth theory on this subject is the mystical. This agrees with the moral view (under which it might be included), in that it represents the design of Christ's work to be the production of a subjective effect in the sinner. It produces a change in him. It overcomes the evil of his nature and restores him to a state of holiness. The two systems differ, however, as to the means by which this inward change is accomplished. According to the one it is by moral power operating according to the laws of mind by the exhibition of truth and the exercise of moral influence. According to the other it is by the mysterious union of God and man, of the divine with the human nature, i. e., of divinity with humanity, brought about by the incarnation. '

Hodge then gives different aspects of the mystical theory throughout history.

What grabbed me
I liked this part of the conclusion of the chapter: 'We are bound to understand the Scriptures in their plain historical sense ; and to admit no philosophy to explain or modify that sense, except the philosophy of the Bible itself; that is, those facts and principles concerning the nature of God, the nature of man, of the world, and of the relation between God and the world, which are either asserted or plainly assumed in the Scriptures. To depart from this principle is to give up the Bible as a rule of faith ; and to substitute for it the teachings of philosophy. That form of Rationalism which consists in giving a philosophical explanation of the truths of revelation, or in resolving them into truths of the reason, is just as certain in the end to teach for doctrines the speculations of men, as the most avowed skepticism. '

The Bible tells us how to view the atonement, not popular philosophy.

Next week's reading
 Read Chapter 10 (Intercession of Christ) and 11 (Kingly office of Christ).

Now it's your turn
Please post your own notes and thoughts in the comments section below.