Truth Unites A Knockout Blow to Penal Substitution? Engaging John Mark Comer on the Atonement
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Aug 12, 2025 A thought-provoking discussion arises as recent criticisms of penal substitutionary atonement challenge its place in theology. Gavin Ortlund systematically outlines five reasons why this doctrine remains essential for Christians. The conversation delves into the deep connections between salvation, legal obligations, and the assurance of righteousness through Christ's grace. Listeners will find insights on how grace liberates believers from fear and shame while illuminating the hope of resurrection.
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Romans 3:25 Supports Propitiation
- Romans 3:25 (hilasterion) carries both expiation and propitiation connotations tied to Old Testament sacrificial context.
- Gavin says Paul's argument supports a penal/propitiatory reading grounded in Levitical atonement imagery.
Recommended Reading Amid Debate
- Gavin mentions a contemporary book Comer referenced and recommends Bobby Jameson's work on sacrifice as a corrective.
- He uses this to note debates about Old Testament sacrifice while defending PSA's core place.
Ancient Attestation Of PSA
- Penal substitution has roots throughout church history, not only in the Reformers.
- Gavin finds penal/substitutionary language in early writers like Athanasius and Irenaeus when reading Isaiah 53 commentary.
