"On the Atonement and Intercession of Jesus Christ" by William Symington is a comprehensive and insightful exploration into the theological depths of two central tenets of Christian doctrine: the Atonement and the Intercession of Christ. The book is a profound reflection on the necessity, nature, and efficacy of Christ's atoning sacrifice and his ongoing intercession for believers.
Symington begins by acknowledging the weight and significance of the subjects at hand. He underscores the Atonement and Intercession as pivotal truths of the gospel, which have often been misunderstood, neglected, and challenged. Symington, aware of the magnitude and importance of these doctrines, aims to present a cohesive and detailed understanding, striving to address the whole spectrum of related theological discussions.
The author asserts that divine revelation alone sheds light on this moral darkness. He emphasizes that while all Christians regard Christ's work as the sole remedy for moral evil, there exist varying interpretations of the nature of this remedy. Symington categorizes these views into three main systems: Socinian, Middle, and Catholic, each presenting distinct perspectives on the Atonement's nature, necessity, and extent.
Symington also explores the intricacies of terms like Atonement, Reconciliation, Redemption, Propitiation, Satisfaction, Substitution, Vicarious, and Expiation. He articulates the nuanced meanings of these terms, urging readers to understand their specific theological implications. This careful elucidation ensures that the profound concepts discussed are comprehended with clarity and depth.
THE ATONEMENT
SECTION I: NATURE OF THE ATONEMENT
SECTION II: OBJECTIONS TO ATONEMENT CONSIDERED.
SECTION III: NECESSITY OF CHRIST'S ATONEMENT.
SECTION IV: PROOF OF CHRIST'S ATONEMENT—ANCIENT SACRIFICES.
SECTION V: PROOF—LEVITICAL SACRIFICES
SECTION VI: PROOF—PROPHECY
SECTION VII: PROOF—THE SUFFERINGS OF CHRIST.
SECTION VIII: PROOF—THE APOSTOLICAL WRITINGS.
SECTION IX: MATTER OR SUBSTANCE OF CHRIST'S ATONEMENT.
SECTION X: VALUE OF CHRIST'S ATONEMENT
SECTION XI: EXTENT OF CHRIST'S ATONEMENT
SECTION XII: RESULTS OF CHRIST'S ATONEMENT.
INTERCESSION: SECTION I.
REALITY OF CHRIST'S INTERCESSION: SECTION II.
NATURE OF CHRIST'S INTERCESSION" SECTION III.
MATTER OF CHRISTS INTERCESSION: SECTION IV.
PROPERTIES OF CHRISTS INTERCESSION: SECTION V.
RESULTS OF CHRIST'S INTERCESSION.