In a couple of weeks, we are going to be singing the Stuart Townend song ‘In Christ Alone’ at both 9:30 and 11am services. I was first introduced to it at a home group meeting, and I found it 99% wonderful. The 1% that I didn’t like was the line ‘on the cross as Jesus died, the wrath of God was satisfied’. I have been wondering whether to talk about it in the sermon, and explain why I don’t like it. I’ve even wondered about changing the line.<\/p>\n
Turns out that I’m not the only one<\/a> (see also the comments at T1:9<\/a> where I came across the story). As I mentioned before, I left the meeting with ++Rowan before the final act of worship, so I didn’t pick up the amendment that Chris had made.<\/p>\n What’s wrong with talking about God’s wrath? It’s undoubtedly Biblical. In part it is because of the doctrine of penal substitution (see my previous posts here<\/a> and here<\/a>). I have great difficulty with the doctrine of penal substitution, and the theology of divine wrath lying behind it. I find the theology of Julian of Norwich (there is no wrath in God) much more in tune with what I know of Jesus. Two main sources for my objections: this book<\/a> by a former tutor (and big influence) which shows the diabolical consequences of the doctrine in practical affairs, and this book<\/a> which gives a Girardian take.<\/p>\n Put simply, I think language of God’s wrath is about our own projections of our inner demons onto Him, rather than reflecting a truth about who God is within Himself. In Him is light, and in Him there is no darkness at all.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" In a couple of weeks, we are going to be singing the Stuart Townend song ‘In Christ Alone’ at both 9:30 and 11am services. I was first introduced to it at a home group meeting, and I found it 99% … Continue reading