TEXTS: John 10:11, 10:14-18, & 10:24-29
The doctrine of Perfect Atonement (also commonly referred to as Limited or Definite Atonement) answers the question: What was the original purpose of God in sending Christ into the world to die on the cross? Was the Father’s purpose to send His Son to die on the cross to make salvation possible? Or did God have a plan of salvation by which, according to the riches of his grace, he designed the atonement to ensure the definitive and perfect salvation of his people?
REFLECTION QUESTIONS
HEAD: QUESTIONS AIMED AT OUR MINDS TO HELP US UNDERSTAND GOD’S WORD.
Read Matthew 1:18-25 with a special focus on verse 21. This is the foundational verses for our Christmas in the Doctrines of Grace Series. Where do you see a hint of the doctrine of Perfect Atonement in this passage?
Here’s a definition of Perfect Atonement- The death of Jesus Christ secured and achieved the redemption of every person given to God the Son by God the Father. The atonement does not merely make salvation possible, but it actually and effectually accomplishes God’s intended purpose — salvation for God’s chosen people. Read the following excerpts from John 10 again- 10:11, 10:14-18, & 10:24-29. Where do you see support of this definition in John 10. What other passages come to mind?
HEART: QUESTIONS AIMED AT OUR AFFECTIONS TO HELP US LOVE GOD
Do you personally find this doctrine difficult to embrace? Why/ why not?
How does this doctrine highlight the personal aspect of God’s love for you in Christ (see Galatians 2:20)?
HANDS: QUESTIONS AIMED AT OUR HANDS TO HELP US LIVE FOR GOD (PERSONALLY, COMMUNALLY, AND MISSIONALLY)
How is this doctrine an encouragement to us as we share the gospel with non-Christians?
Christ’s atonement does not merely make salvation possible, but it actually and effectually accomplishes salvation for God’s people. How does this bring comfort to us?
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES: