Theology is something that I like to, but do not always, understand the way that I would like to. J.I. Packer wrote several articles on the reasons and ways of atonement. Atonement, by definition, is the satisfaction given for an injury or wrong. God, in scripture, made it clear how He was able to atone the sins of the world. In one specific article entitled, “Blood Atonement,” J.I. Packer discusses how atonement through blood was absolutely necessary for the reconciliation of His people to Himself.
In the Old Testament teachings, people were “atoned” of their sins through the sacrifice of a spotless lamb. Once a year, there was a day of atonement where the people would go to the temple and ask forgiveness for their sins committed that year. This set the example of how the world was to be forgiven of their sins. God gave this law for a reason, and though, at times it seems gruesome, it is necessary.
There was no other way in which God could save us other than blood. This is not to say that He COULD not if He chose another way, but more-so that, because He chose this way, there was no other. The nature of God does not allow sin near holiness, and for this reason, it was necessary to bring atonement to a dirty people. God's nature is against sin and for justice. It often seems cruel that the loving God our culture talks so much about would be just. He is. God's justice called for there to be some blood atonement for reconciliation. Blood needed to be spilled in order for there to be right relationship with Him. Because God chose this specific way, if He had done it any other way, it would have been cosmic child abuse. He loves us too much to allow us to have to form of reconciliation with Him. This is why He sent Jesus to die for us and pay the price for our sins. He is a good God and wanted to show His love in this way. Therefore, blood atonement was the only way and He did it out of love.
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