Christus Victor


Book Description

Gustaf Aulen's classic work, 'Christus Victor', has long been a standard text on the atonement. Aulen applies history of ideas' methodology to historical theology in tracing the development of three views of the atonement. Aulen asserts that in traditional histories of the doctrine of the atonement only two views have usually been presented, the objective/Anselmian and the subjective/Aberlardian views. According to Aulen, however, there is another type of atonement doctrine in which Christ overcomes the hostile powers that hold humanity in subjection, at the same time that God in Christ reconciles the world to Himself. This view he calls the "classic" idea of the atonement. Because of its predominance in the New Testament, in patristic writings, and in the theology of Luther, Aulen holds that the classic type may be called the distinctively Christian idea of the atonement.







The Work of Christ


Book Description

The Work of Christ, by Scottish minister and Biblical scholar P. T. Forsyth, explains the character and deeds of the Lord Jesus, and how they affect Christian beliefs and life philosophy. Adapted from a series of lectures the author delivered to gatherings of young and newly-ordained ministers, this book is an engaging and competent example of Biblical scholarship. Well-received by his audience, the author was encouraged to publish these thoughts in a book; their central pillar - that Christ's life and works pierce to the heart of theological study - remains a poignant reflection upon the New Testament. The qualities of a good Christian are found to be intricately related to what Jesus said during his famous sermons and teachings. Qualities of self-sacrifice, spiritual reflection, and atoning for our sins are discussed. The author also discusses Christ's philosophical words on the subject of reconciliation; why the principles of reconcile can blossom into a way of life. Latterly, the author examines the Christian cross and its symbolism, before embarking on a discussion of the challenges and problems facing the modern-day Christian. For the author, reconciling belief in God and Jesus Christ with elements of philosophy, and recognizing the gravity of the Savior's words and martyrdom, is crucial for all believers in the present time.