Latter-day Saint Perspectives on Atonement

Deidre Nicole Green and Eric D. Huntsman edited a collection that explores different approaches to Latter-day Saint views on the atonement, drawing on scriptural and historical foundations and theological explorations to evaluate what is effective and ethical and offer ways to reconceive these views to respond to contemporary criticisms.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 23 January 2024
Publisher: University of Illinois Press

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, along with other Christian denominations, has long held a core belief in the profound connection between personal salvation and the remarkable events surrounding Jesus Christ's suffering, death, and resurrection. While faith in and the experience of Christ's atonement have remained central tenets for Latter-day Saints, there has been a growing trend among thinkers in recent decades to reexamine traditional understandings of this theological concept. To address this, Deidre Nicole Green and Eric D. Huntsman have edited a collection that brings together a diverse range of perspectives and approaches to understanding Latter-day Saint beliefs on this fundamental area of theology.

The contributors to this collection draw upon a wide array of viewpoints, including classical atonement theories and contemporary reformulations of atonement theory. The first section of the book focuses on establishing scriptural and historical foundations, while the second section delves into theological explorations. Together, the contributors assess the effectiveness and ethical implications of the Latter-day Saint outlook and offer innovative ways to reconceive these views in order to provide a robust theological response to contemporary criticisms about atonement.

The contributors to this collection are a diverse group of scholars and experts in the field of Latter-day Saint theology. They include Nicholas J. Frederick, Fiona Givens, Deidre Nicole Green, Sharon J. Harris, J.B. Haws, Eric D. Huntsman, Benjamin Keogh, Ariel Bybee Laughton, Adam S. Miller, Jenny Reeder, T. Benjamin Spackman, and Joseph M. Spencer. Each contributor brings their unique insights and expertise to the table, contributing to a rich and comprehensive exploration of the topic.

One of the key themes that emerges from the collection is the importance of recognizing the multifaceted nature of atonement. The contributors argue that atonement is not merely a one-dimensional concept but rather a complex and multifaceted reality that encompasses various aspects of human experience and relationships. They explore how atonement relates to concepts such as repentance, forgiveness, grace, and redemption, and how it can be understood in both personal and communal contexts.

Another important theme is the role of Jesus Christ in atonement. The contributors emphasize that Jesus Christ's sacrifice on the cross is the central event of human history and the foundation of Latter-day Saint beliefs about atonement. They explore how Christ's atonement provides a means for individuals to be reconciled to God and how it can be applied to everyday life and relationships.

The collection also addresses contemporary criticisms about atonement, particularly those that argue that traditional understandings of atonement are outdated or insufficient in addressing contemporary challenges and issues. The contributors offer thoughtful responses to these criticisms, demonstrating how Latter-day Saint beliefs can be adapted and reimagined to address contemporary concerns and provide a relevant theological framework for living in the modern world.

In conclusion, this collection is a valuable resource for anyone interested in exploring Latter-day Saint beliefs about atonement. It provides a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to understanding this foundational area of theology, drawing upon a wide range of perspectives and ideas. The contributors offer insightful and thought-provoking insights that will be of interest to scholars, theologians, and Latter-day Saint communities alike. By reexamining traditional understandings of atonement and offering innovative ways to reconceive these views, this collection contributes to the ongoing dialogue about the nature of salvation and the role of Jesus Christ in human history.

Weight: 566g
Dimension: 155 x 235 x 45 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780252087554