Atonement: A Guide for the Perplexed

Reviews / Votes

Atonement is a clear, concise and well-written introduction which will be of benefit to students and ministers alike but could also stimulate lively discussion among more advanced experts in the field ... this is an excellent book and a stimulating read. * Theology Journal * A most comprehensive guide to the subject ... Each chapter handles complex theology with deft confidence, it also includes a number of helpful illustrations ... [This book] deserves a long life as a complementary addition and necessary corrective to many other introductory texts on the doctrine of atonement. * Regent's Reviews * This is an economical and lively presentation of Christian teaching about the atonement; it demonstrates deep respect for the Christian tradition, appreciation of the place of the atonement in the wider field of Christian doctrine, and acute theological judgement. * John Webster, University of St Andrews, UK * The Christian doctrine of the atonement is endlessly rich in its nature, for it speaks of the saving work of the triune God whose plenitude is beyond measure. Johnson offers a valuable exposition of the relationship between the theology of atonement and the doctrine of God, and helpfully explores some of the key ways in which the infinite richness of God is reflected in the nature of God's actions for the reconciliation of creatures * Ivor J. Davidson, University of St Andrews, UK * The atonement is no more the answer to a multiple-choice question (Which theory is correct?) than a single attribute is to the question "What is God like?" Adam Johnson helps readers to see that the atonement is as deep, diverse, and multi-faceted as is God himself, for the atonement concerns how God in his fullness reconciles the fullness of all things to himself through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Those perplexed about the saving significance of Jesus' death will find here a rich response, a theological treasure trove. * Kevin J. Vanhoozer, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, USA * Johnson's prose is elegant, clear and accessible. He often punctuates his theological discussions with examples from art and culture more broadly. His theological commentary is erudite and familiar with primary sources. Three helpful bibliographies are included at the end of the volume. The book will work very well as an introduction to the atonement at both undergraduate as well as graduate levels. * International Journal of Systematic Theology * One of the best books on the atonement that I have read in my time. What I particularly appreciate about Johnson's work is his inclusive methodology: rather than looking at atonement theories as competitors, seeking the one definitive way of speaking about the reconciling work of God in Jesus Christ, he instead insists that we see them as complementary analyses of the manifold salvation we have been given. * The Crucified God * This book could steer us back to teaching about the atonement as if it were almost the only thing that matters. * The Scriptorium Daily *