Theodicy and the Cross of Christ: A New Testament Inquiry

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The death of Jesus is commonly regarded as the one radically novel perspective from which the problem of suffering is viewed in the New Testament, as opposed to the appropriation of viewpoints present elsewhere in contemporary writings and in the Old Testament. Tom Holmns focus on the death of Jesus as a source of New Testament theodicy reveals a two-fold reasoning: the lasting relevance of the theme of Jesus death on the cross and theodicy, and the lack of thorough and sustained New Testament investigations into this theme. Holmns argument focuses on the changes in the concept of suffering occasioned by the unprecedented sacrifice of Jesus. He explores both the derivative nature of suffering as Gods retribution or a test for discipline in line with the traditions known in the time contemporary to the formation of the New Testament and the sharp, wholly new contrast of suffering as intercessory in the crucifixion of Christ, Son of God, appearing to the world as impossible. Holmn considers many issues in his discussion, including the context of providence and covenant, and the problem that Jesus death causes for theodicy. He also examines other perspectives, such as the writings of Paul, and practical considerations of coping with anguish. Taken as a whole, this study provides a fresh examination of the crucifixions central role for understanding New Testament approaches to suffering.

Reviews

There is much benefit to be found in the pages of this monograph as Holmen clearly and ably expounds on the cross of Christ as the theodicy of the NT. * Criswell Theological Review *

Author Bio

Tom Holmn is Adjunct Professor in New Testament exegetics at bo Akademi University and at Helsinki University, Finland.