Dogmatic Theology Vol 2 - Shedd - XXVII - Chapter 2 Vicarious atonement concluded

Required reading  

Dogmatic Theology Vol 2 by William G.T. Shedd (Available from Amazon or here) - Conclude Chapter 2 'Vicarious atonement'.

My summary  

Today Shedd finishes the chapter with a lengthy consideration of the extent of Christ's atonement.

Firstly he defines the word 'extent', preferring it to denote the act of 'extending'.

Shedd then discusses the difference between atonement and redemption, so that technically speaking we can say that Christ's atonement is unlimited but his redemption is limited.

Shedd then provides arguments against alternate views (particularly universalism and Arminianism) including an analysis of relevant Biblical text and Greek words.

The chapter ends with answers to the question: 'If the atonement of Christ is not intended to be universally applied, why should it be universally offered?'

What grabbed me

I loved how Shedd demonstrated the limited atonement exposes the pride of man: 'The offer of the atonement to an unbeliever is adapted to disclose the aversion and obstinacy of his own will. This method of forgiving sin displeases him. It is humbling. If he were invited to make a personal atonement, this would fall in with his inclination. But to do no atoning work at all, and simply to trust in the atoning work of another, is the most unwelcome act that human pride can be summoned to perform. Belief in vicarious atonement is distasteful and repulsive to the natural man, because he is a proud man. When, therefore, a man is informed that there is no forgiveness of sin but through Christ's atonement, that this atonement is ample for the forgiveness of every man, and that nothing but unbelief will prevent any man's forgiveness, his attention is immediately directed to his own disinclination to trust in this atonement, and aversion to this method of forgiveness. Bat this experience is highly useful. It causes him to know his helplessness, even in respect to so fundamental an act as faith. The consequence is, that he betakes himself to God in prayer that he may be inclined and enabled to believe.'

Man hates to be told he must contribute nothing for his salvation.

Next week's reading    

Commence Chapter 3 'Regeneration' by reading up to the paragraph beginning 'In connection with the doctrine that God is the sole author of regeneration, several particulars are noticed.' (Page 510 in my edition)

Now it's your turn

Please post your own notes and thoughts in the comments section below.