Section 1

“This is a very unusual and important book. In this volume, William Lane Craig brings together a superb combination of the three essential dimensions of the Doctrine of the Atonement: the biblical, the theological, and the philosophical. Most significantly, he starts with the foundation in biblical exegesis and theology, both Old and New Testament, and uses it as an anchor for his handling of the systematic theological and analytical philosophical discussions that follow. In this way, he is able to set the whole discussion in perspective, recognize the central importance as well as the theological and philosophical coherence of penal substitution, and show how some of the other views of the Atonement also have something to contribute. This is a magnificent accomplishment, for which we should all be truly grateful. With enthusiasm, I heartily recommend it to all who pursue the serious study of this all-important biblical doctrine.”

“Atonement and the Death of Christ is the definitive work on penal substitution. Those who want to argue against penal substitution must first get familiar with this volume. It is a welcome addition to the now growing philosophical literature on the atonement.”

“In Atonement and the Death of Christ William Lane Craig defends a classical Reformed understanding of the atonement. However, unlike other works on this subject, this book addresses issues in patristics, Anglo-American law, and philosophy, making the case that insights from these areas of study may illuminate our understanding of the atonement. Craig shows us that the doctrine of the atonement—though an essential belief of Christian theology—is no different than fundamental beliefs within other disciplines insofar as it may be analyzed with intellectual tools outside the domains from which it originally arose. Craig should be commended for reminding us that the proper development of Christian theology is enhanced when it is in conversation with other academic fields.”