penal theory

noun

: a development of the satisfaction theory of the atonement introduced by the Protestant reformers and prevalent in Lutheran and Reformed orthodoxy that holds that Christ reconciled man to God by participating in human life to the extent of taking on himself without corruption the status of sinner and bearing in his soul the penal torment and desolation

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Cite this Entry

“Penal theory.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/penal%20theory. Accessed 28 Nov. 2024.

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