Lent Classes 2010
How Does Christ Save Us?
Three Classical Atonement Theories
and Why They Matter for Us Today
Thursdays, February 25- March 25
7-8:15 p.m.
Atonement. At-One-Ment. How does the work and person of Christ make us one, with God, with ourselves, and with each other? How does Christ reconcile us? In other words, how does Christ save us? And why do we need saving, anyway? These are the questions we will engage together this Lent.
Many Christians and non-Christians are familiar with Satisfaction Theory, the theory that God sent Jesus to die on the cross to make reparations to God for the sins of humanity. But this is just one of three classical Atonement Theories. For some people, this is a powerful theology; but, for other people this theology simply doesn’t work, and may even offend or repel. But there are other ways to understand the work of Christ.
Through an exploration of scripture, hymns, prayers, the ancient fathers of our faith, and contemporary theologians (including liberation, feminist, and womanist theologians), we will “try on” various Atonement Theories and open the door to making meaning of Jesus for ourselves in a class that promises to be engaging and enlightening.
Weekly Course Schedule
Atone-what!?: What is Atonement and why does it matter?
Thursday, February 25
Satisfaction Theory: Vicarious Suffering and Forgiveness of Sin
Thursday, March 4
Christus Victor: Cosmic Conflict and Victory over Evil
Thursday, March 11
Moral Influence or Exemplar Theory
Thursday, March 18
What difference does it make to you?
Thursday, March 25
Thursday Evening Schedule
6:00 p.m. Simple Soup Supper7:00 p.m. Class Session: How does Christ Save Us?
8:15 p.m. Compline Prayer
8:30 p.m. Leave Taking
Come for dinner, for dinner and classes, or just for the classes!
SIGN UP FOR CLASSES AT THE MESSAGE CENTER TODAY!
ALSO SIGN UP TO HOST A MEAL! That means you’d bring the salad and beverages that evening, help set the table, and offer hospitality. Soup will be provided.
