Atonement Theories Simplified: Why did Jesus need to die?

"Why did Jesus die?"
It's a question that's central to the Christian faith.

Answers, beyond 'Jesus died for us' or "because of our sins", have often revealed a mishmash of atonement views people can't clearly articulate or answer for. This isn't a resource of judgement, it's a resource to help you untangle what you believe and what you may struggle with.

This resource is perfect for teachers, training your Kidmin leaders, older youth groups, adult Bible study groups, or anyone who wants to clarify their position.

Each theory is first broken down by explaining the meaning of its name, and then the main teaching is simplified into everyday language. The resource then examines the Biblical basis, and strength of each theory, before explaining why some people may struggle with the approach, and its origin.

Theories covered:
Christus Victor, Substitutionary Atonement, Penal Substitution and Moral Examplar and Ransom.

Included:

• Introduction
• Session guide
• Word list
• Poster / handout explaining the four primary theories.
• Poster / handout explaining the debate surrounding each theory.
• Individual theories presented as full-page posters (including a fifth theory)

ZIP file containing one A4 and one US Letter size file.

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Disclaimer: These are matters of faith. Faith is not the same as fact. Faith asks people to believe even if there are holes in their understanding, or questions left unanswered. This resource is trying to take a complicated divine idea and make it simple - these explanations do not claim to be perfect, but to hold the essence of each argument.