Recovering the scandal of the cross

By Mark D. Baker, Joel B. Green

Subjects: Crucifixion, Crucifiement, Bible, criticism, interpretation, etc., n. t., Crucifixion of Jesus Christ, Sühneopfer, Atonement, 11.46 study and interpretation of the New Testament, Nieuwe Testament, Kreuzigung Jesu, Soteriologie, Kruis van Christus, Bibel, Jesus christ, crucifixion, Rachat (Théologie), Verzoening

Description: The cross is the defining symbol of the Christian faith. Yet the Roman cross was first and foremost an instrument of cruel, shameful and violent execution. Early Christians quickly recognized the atoning significance of the cross of Christ, and it resonated deeply with their experience of salvation. But the cross remained a blessing framed by scandal, an epochal and yet mysterious event irreducible to a single formulation.