Understanding atonement

Lent 2024 – Part 2 Recapitulation

This Lent, I am reflecting on the profound significance of Jesus Christ’s death and resurrection. As I explore the various atonement theories embraced or historically cherished by Christian churches, I realise this journey reveals a rich tapestry of beliefs and interpretations. There is more than one perspective. For those who have engaged in discussions about them, there are way more than the two you have argued over.

Changing what you believe about atonement is not denying Jesus. The gospel is not a description of how Jesus’ death (and resurrection, ascension, and enthronement) rescues the world, but that it does so. The gospel is not a theory or advice, it is news.

“It’s understandable to be unfamiliar with the recapitulation theory of the atonement. Many people haven’t come across it. However, if you’ve ever sung the Hymn ‘Praise to the Holiest in the Height,’ you’ve actually encountered this theory. Verse 2 beautifully captures its sentiment.”

O loving wisdom of our God!
when all was sin and shame, 
a second Adam to the fight
and to the rescue came.

That, especially the lines I have italicised, is recapitulation theory.

Or this: “The Son of God became a man to enable men to become sons of God.” (C S Lewis, Mere Christianity). That is recapitulation theory too.

⁷ In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, ⁸ which he lavished upon us, in all wisdom and insight ⁹ making known to us the mystery of his will, according to his purpose, which he set forth in Christ ¹⁰ as a plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth.

Ephesians 1:7-10 ESVUK

For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive.

1 Corinthians 15:22

Recapitulation means summarizing under a new head. It is a theory by Irenaeus (AD 130 – 202) that builds on earlier ideas by Justin Martyr (c, AD 100 – 185).

It’s like that family sci-fi show Doctor Who, where The Doctor needs a break from death’s relentless grip, so they hit the reset button and undergo a regeneration! Imagine a complete body makeover—every single cell gets a glow-up, allowing the character to sport a new look, personality, or even switch genders like they’re changing hats! And let’s not forget the bizarre twist: they could become an entirely different species! Though, let’s be real, that’s just something they casually dropped in one episode like a plot twist at a family dinner—“Oh, by the way, did you know I could be a toaster?”

The comedic crime caper Death in Paradise trots out a premise where every single cop on the make-believe sun-soaked island of Saint Marie has swapped places faster than you can say “accidental sunscreen overdose,” except for the Police Commissioner, who seems glued to their desk! Somehow, this show keeps rolling with a fresh cast while maintaining the same beachy backdrop.

In recapitulation, Jesus embodies God becoming human as a second or final Adam, offering a profound sense of hope. While Adam’s disobedience brought about death, Jesus’ obedience and his selfless sacrifice on the cross open the door to life and salvation for all who choose to believe in him. In this beautiful narrative, Jesus emerges as the head of the new humanity—a new creation in Christ—contrasting with Adam, who symbolizes the old humanity.

Recapitulation beautifully connects with the profound theme of redemption. Salvation deeply resonates with our human experience, while redemption is God’s gentle declaration, “this is my world, and I am reclaiming it.” This journey isn’t solely about reversing humanity’s course; it’s about transforming all creation from disobedience into a harmonious obedience to God, inviting us all into a renewed relationship.

Atonement isn’t just a concept; it’s a radical declaration of unity. Jesus, the trailblazer of a new humanity, embodies this audacious act that challenges conventional notions of love and forgiveness. His journey forces us to confront uncomfortable truths about our relationships and the very essence of redemption.

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