Dr. John Joy discusses Aquinas's theory of the atonement, exploring theological implications, contrasting views with the reformers, examining Aquinas's theory emphasizing penance over punishment, and discussing challenges with penal substitution theory.
Aquinas's theory of the atonement emphasizes the need for healing and restoration, viewing it as an act of penance to restore justice and friendship with God.
Aquinas's doctrine of atonement focuses on incorporation, inviting individuals to unite with Christ through penance and sacrifice for the restoration of justice and union with God.
Deep dives
The Atonement in St. Thomas of Aquinas
Dr. John Joy introduces the topic of the atonement in St. Thomas of Aquinas, highlighting the intersection of theology and philosophy. Aquinas' understanding of the atonement departs from the penal substitution view, which emphasizes Christ taking on the punishment for humanity's sins. Rather, Aquinas sees the problem as being on our side, with humanity in need of healing and restoration. He views the atonement as an act of penance, where Christ offers satisfactory punishment to restore justice and friendship with God. Aquinas emphasizes the incorporation of humanity into Christ's redemption, with the invitation for individuals to unite themselves with Christ's sacrifice. This understanding allows for a more comprehensive account that respects human nature, biblical evidence, and the divine understanding of justice.
Issues with Penal Substitutionary Account
The podcast discusses the issues with the penal substitutionary account of the atonement. One problem is the perceived injustice of God punishing an innocent person instead of the guilty. Another issue arises from the logical consequence of this view, where one must choose between universalism or limited atonement. If Christ's punishment is sufficient for all, then everyone should be guaranteed salvation. However, if some are not saved, then it questions the effectiveness of Christ's punishment. Lastly, the penal substitutionary account fails to reconcile the nature of offenses and the severity of sin. Overall, the penal substitutionary account is seen as simplistic and incompatible with a coherent understanding of justice, God's love, and the complexity of human nature.
Aquinas' Doctrine of Atonement
Aquinas' doctrine of atonement offers a contrasting view to penal substitution. Aquinas sees the atonement as an act of penance that restores not only justice, but also friendship with God. Christ's death on the cross is seen as a voluntary and satisfactory offering to make reparation for sin and draw humanity into unity with Christ. Aquinas emphasizes the importance of internal balance and rectitude, which can be achieved through experiencing penance and suffering. This understanding allows for a deeper incorporation of individuals into Christ's redemption and the invitation for ongoing participation in the atoning work.
Comparing Luther and Aquinas
A significant difference between Luther and Aquinas is highlighted: the exchange versus incorporation. Luther's view follows the idea of exchange, where Christ takes on the punishment for our sins so that we can avoid it. In contrast, Aquinas emphasizes incorporation, where Christ's atonement invites individuals to unite with him and participate in the reparation of sin through penance and sacrifice. This perspective shifts the focus from Christ doing something instead of us to Christ enabling us to do what we could not do on our own. This understanding resonates with the Catholic practice of the sacrifice of the Mass, where worship, suffering, and penances are offered in union with Christ's sacrificial offering for the restoration of justice and union with God.
