Saved by the City It’s Easter. How About That Penal Substitutionary Atonement? + Brian Zahnd
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Apr 17, 2025 
Brian Zahnd, founder and lead pastor of Word of Life Church, dives into the complexities of atonement theories, particularly penal substitutionary atonement. He discusses the ongoing debate about the meaning of Jesus' death and resurrection, urging listeners to reconsider traditional views. The conversation explores various interpretations, including the emphasis on God's love and the significance of storytelling in faith. Zahnd encourages a deeper engagement with Easter traditions and highlights the importance of sacramental participation in Christianity.
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Problems with Penal Substitution
- Penal substitutionary atonement (PSA) emerged much later in church history and is not present in the early or Eastern church traditions.
- PSA tends to create a divide in the Trinity and portrays God as wrathful punishing Jesus for humanity's sins.
Historical Shift in Atonement Views
- Early church interpretations emphasized ransom and Christus Victor without focusing on punishment or wrath.
- Calvinist influence turned the ransom into God pouring wrath on Jesus, shaping modern Protestant views heavily.
Embrace Storytelling Over Theory
- We do not need rigid atonement theories but should embrace multiple valid, honest stories about the cross.
- Favor storytelling over sterile, abstract theology to preserve the richness of the gospel message.
