Universal Aspects Of The Atonement
UNIVERSAL ASPECTS OF THE ATONEMENT
We must never think of the atoning work of Christ upon the cross as being insufficient to save all men. Augustine proposed the formula: “Sufficient for all, efficient for the elect.” While illustrations can break down, the following might be helpful. Let us suppose that I have a million dollar line of credit and I go to an automobile dealership to purchase a car. I pick one out that costs $20,000. My line of credit has been sufficient for a much greater amount, but it was only efficient for the cost of the car. In the same way, the death of Christ was efficient to bring about the salvation of God's chosen people—to God's redeemed who have been purchased from their sins.
Dr. James Oliver Buswell gives us several points that help us understand this tension between the universal and particular aspects of the atonement.
1. It is sufficient for all.
Christ would not have had to speak another three hours and forty five minutes on the cross to atone for the rest of the sins of the human race. His death was both qualitatively and quantitatively sufficient for anyone who believes.
I have occasionally been asked how the death of a single individual could possibly atone for the sins of so many. The answer, I believe, is found in the nature of the one who Atones. He is the eternal Son of God. Only such an infinite Being could bring forth such a sufficient atonement.
2. It is applicable to all.
There is nothing in the events of the death of Christ that intrinsically limit its application to all men. What is limited is the application of the atonement and its effectiveness of drawing some to repentance.
3. It is offered to all.
The offer of salvation is made to all men. Indeed, God commands all men everywhere to repent (Acts 17:30). The Bible closes with this invitation to all men: And the Spirit and the bride say, “Come.” And let the one who hears say, “Come.” And let the one who is thirsty come; let the one who wishes take the water of life without cost. (Revelation 22:17).