The Death of Jesus: Eyes Opened Beyond Substitutionary Atonement
The notion of one’s eyes being opened in the bible is an important theme, meaning transformation. Adam and Eve’s eyes are opened to their nakedness, as Paul/Saul’s were opened to the wrongness of persecuting the early church. We see something similar with the transformation of the soldiers at the cross in the synoptics, which seems to be playing off a tradition about crucified Cleomenes III in Plutarch (though this would make a late date for the synoptics). The point is, if we are going to overcome the substitutionary atonement reading of Christ’s death, it will be helpful to see what a moral influence interpretation entails. Clearly substitutionary atonement is incoherent according to the criteria of Justice, for how does an innocent child in Africa being punished for the crimes of a murderer in Chicago serve Justice?
The moral influence interpretation of Jesus’ death, primarily associated with the theology of Abelard of Bath in the 12th century, emphasizes the transformative power of Christ’s life and death on human morality rather than focusing on the legal or sacrificial aspects. Jesus’ death is seen as the ultimate demonstration of God’s love for humanity. According to this view, Christ’s willingness to suffer and die out of love for humanity serves as a profound example that should inspire love in return. This love is meant to transform the hearts of individuals, encouraging them to live lives of love, compassion, and service to others. In a modern reading this means Christ died to make the hidden sin nature of the world who turned on him conspicuous to inspire repentance, transformation and growth.
Jesus’ life, teachings, and death provide the perfect moral example for believers to follow. The moral influence theory suggests that by contemplating Christ’s sacrifice, individuals are motivated to turn away from sin and toward righteousness. It’s not merely about avoiding wrongdoings but actively living out virtues that Jesus exemplified. The crucifixion, in this interpretation, isn’t about satisfying divine justice or paying a penalty for sin but rather about inspiring moral awakening. By showing the depth of divine love through his suffering, Jesus opens people’s eyes to the possibility of a life transformed by love, leading to ethical living.
The moral influence of Jesus’ death encourages repentance, not out of fear of punishment but from a heartfelt response to the love shown by Christ. This repentance leads to a change in behavior, fostering a community of believers who strive to emulate Jesus’ love, forgiveness, and humility. Beyond individual transformation, the moral influence of Jesus’ death has implications for how Christians interact with society. It promotes a vision of community based on love, justice, and peace, urging believers to work for the betterment of the world in Jesus’ name. This interpretation often serves as a critique of more legalistic or penal substitution theories of atonement, which focus on sin, guilt, and legal satisfaction. Instead, the moral influence theory highlights the relational and transformative aspects of Christianity, emphasizing reconciliation with God and others through love. The moral influence theory can appeal to a broader audience, including those outside traditional Christian doctrine, by focusing on the universal values of love, sacrifice, and moral goodness exemplified by Jesus’ life and death. This understanding provides a framework where the ethical and loving nature of Christ’s sacrifice is central to Christian living. It suggests that the primary effect of the cross is to draw people into a loving relationship with God and each other, thereby influencing moral behavior and societal ethics. It is more in line with the Old Testament model of a God who forgives such as with the penitential psalms and the story of Jonah rather than the hands-tied God of substitutionary atonement who can’t forgive and so needs to take out his wrath on someone.
Historically, some ancient figures deaths are noted in historical or religious texts as moments that significantly opened people’s eyes or led to profound realizations or changes. Socrates’ death by drinking hemlock after being sentenced to death for corrupting the youth of Athens and impiety has been viewed through the lens of martyrdom for philosophical inquiry and truth. His trial and death highlighted the tension between individual thought and state control, influencing subsequent generations to question authority and value philosophical discourse. Plato’s dialogues, especially “The Apology,” “Crito,” and “Phaedo,” capture this moment, illustrating how his death opened the eyes of his contemporaries and posterity to the importance of philosophical inquiry.
Julius Caesar’s assassination on the Ides of March in 44 BC by members of the Roman Senate, including Brutus, led to a civil war and the eventual end of the Roman Republic, ushering in the Roman Empire. Caesar’s death opened the eyes of Romans and historians to the fragility of republican institutions and the allure of autocratic power. Shakespeare’s portrayal in “Julius Caesar” further cements this event as a moment of political revelation and caution. Consider the authoritarian tendencies of Donald Trump.
Hypatia of Alexandria was a philosopher, mathematician, and astronomer, Hypatia’s murder by a Christian mob has been interpreted as a tragic end to the classical era of learning in Alexandria, highlighting the clash between science and religion, and the dangers of religious fanaticism. Her death opened the eyes of many to the importance of tolerance, intellectual freedom, and the preservation of knowledge.
These deaths not only had immediate impacts on their societies but also served as enduring lessons or warnings about the consequences of political power, the nature of wisdom and inquiry, and the implications of religious or ideological zealotry. Each figure’s death has been a lens through which subsequent generations have viewed significant cultural, philosophical, or religious shifts. This is what Socrates hoped for in the Phaedo when he said to Crito to make a prayer of thanksgiving to Asclepius for the poison – which also resonates with the impaled just man in Plato’s Republic.
Several modern historical figures have had deaths that exerted moral influence, sparking significant ethical reflections, movements, or changes in societal values. For example, Thomas Becket was The Archbishop of Canterbury and was murdered in Canterbury Cathedral, largely due to his conflict with King Henry II over the rights and privileges of the Church. His death led to widespread outrage and his canonization shortly after, symbolizing the struggle for ecclesiastical independence and the moral authority of the Church over secular powers.
Mahatma Gandhi’s assassination by Nathuram Godse for his stance on non-violence and his efforts towards Hindu-Muslim unity had a profound moral impact. His death underscored the power of nonviolent resistance and unity in diversity, influencing civil rights movements worldwide.
Martin Luther King jr’s assassination during the Civil Rights Movement in the United States not only galvanized support for civil rights but also highlighted the cost of challenging racial injustice. King’s death has continued to inspire movements for equality and justice, emphasizing non-violence and moral courage.
Though his death was not violent, the moral influence of Nelson Mandela’s life and his peaceful passing after years of imprisonment and struggle against apartheid in South Africa had a profound moral impact. His life and death reaffirmed the values of reconciliation, forgiveness, and the fight for human dignity.
These individuals’ deaths not only marked the end of their personal journeys but also became moral touchstones, influencing ethical discourse, activism, and the collective conscience of societies far beyond their lifetimes. Their legacies continue to inspire moral reflection and action in various contexts around the world. For example, John F. Kennedy’s assassination on November 22, 1963, had a profound moral impact on American society and beyond. Kennedy’s death brought the nation together in a shared sense of loss, transcending political divides. The collective mourning underscored a sense of national unity and a reminder of the fragility of leadership and the values it represents. As a supporter of civil rights, Kennedy’s assassination came at a critical time. His death intensified the push for civil rights legislation, which was partly seen as a tribute to his legacy. The Civil Rights Act of 1964, passed under Lyndon B. Johnson, can be partly attributed to the momentum and moral urgency created by Kennedy’s assassination. The circumstances surrounding Kennedy’s death led to widespread conspiracy theories and questions about government transparency, secrecy, and accountability. This has had a lasting impact on how Americans view their government, emphasizing the need for openness and truth in public affairs. Kennedy’s famous call to “ask not what your country can do for you – ask what you can do for your country” became even more resonant after his death. His assassination inspired many to enter public service with a sense of duty and idealism, influencing figures like Robert F. Kennedy and later generations of leaders. Kennedy was seen as a leader who navigated the Cold War with a focus on peace and detente. His death raised concerns about the continuity of his policies, particularly in relation to the Soviet Union and the nuclear arms race. It underscored the moral imperative for diplomacy and the dangers of political violence in international relations. Kennedy’s image as a young, charismatic leader was shattered by his assassination, highlighting the vulnerability of even the most powerful figures. This led to a cultural reflection on heroism, the burdens of leadership, and the human condition, influencing art, literature, and public discourse. The assassination sparked debates on gun control, political violence, and the ethics of public demonstrations of grief and media coverage. These discussions have continued to influence moral and legal frameworks regarding violence and public safety.
Kennedy’s death did not just end a presidency; it catalyzed a series of moral reckonings within the United States about race, governance, personal responsibility, and the international role of the country. The legacy of his moral influence is seen in the ongoing commitment to civil rights, public service, and the pursuit of peace and transparency in government
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