Channels, Spring 2018

Channels • 2018 • Volume 2 • Number 2 Page 1 The Accomplishment of Biblical Theology on Atonement Braydon Pape Biblical and Theological Studies — Cedarville University Introduction and Methodology tonement is a crucial theme throughout Scripture. It is impossible for me to cover all the bases of this theme in this paper. However, my goal is to specifically examine the ways the theme of atonement connects the Old Testament themes of sacrifice and priesthood to the person and work of Christ as the fulfillment of these themes in the New Testament. I will develop this thesis by tracing the relationship between the sacrifice and priesthood in Leviticus and Christ’s sacrificial work and priestly office in Hebrews. The covenants under which these ideas of atonement are expressed will aid in my development of the theme and articulation of the biblical theological task. Biblical Theology Tools Biblical theology is the study of the Bible on its own terms using certain tools and methodology to connect texts, themes, and typology across the canon of Scripture. To discuss the unfolding of atonement across the biblical canon, I will use word/concept tools, big picture framework, and strategic selection. The word “atonement” isn’t used in Scripture; however, we find concepts related to this theme throughout the Old and New Testaments. It is important to study themes and concepts related to atonement; especially, forgiveness, redemption, propitiation, and reconciliation. When we understand how these concepts relate to the theme, we are able to trace atonement across the overarching story of the Bible. The Atoning Sacrifice The concept of sacrifice is closely related to the theme of atonement both theologically and practically. In fact, “the Hebrew verb kipper (atone), expresses one of the primary purposes of sacrifice” 1 thus showing the interrelation between these terms. In the Old Testament, 1 R.T. Beckwith, “Sacrifice”, New Dictionary of Biblical Theology (Downers Grove: IVP, 2000) p. 754 A