Journal: Journal of Dispensational Theology
Volume: JODT 17:50 (Spring 2013)
Article: Editorial
Author: Ron J. Bigalke, Jr.

Editorial

Ron J. Bigalke

The notion of atonement is related to sacrifice throughout the Old Testament; it is the means by which God provides for reconciliation. The sacrificial offerings reminded the worshippers that a rupture existed in the relationship between humanity and God. The divine judgment upon all humanity is just, and the sacrifices themselves constituted a provision for reconciliation. Of course, the Old Testament sacrifices anticipated the once-for-all sacrifice of the Lord Jesus Christ. One word that is used to explain the benefits of the death of Christ is “propitiation.” The New Testament refers to the wrath of God as necessitating propitiation. The word “propitiation” (Gk. hilasmos; Heb. kapporeth) indicates that God was truly appeased through the death of Christ, and those who receive the benefits of Jesus’ work are not only forgiven but also are not regarded as under the righteous wrath of God. The love of God is not contrary to His holy justice. Some modern theologians are critical of the concept of propitiation because it may be equated with customs in pagan mythology. God, they argue, was not appeased in the manner of the pagan gods who had to be placated by gifts and offerings deemed necessary for an ill-tempered kind of wrath (cf. Homer’s The Iliad regarding the actions of Agamemnon in sacrificing his daughter when Princess Helen was captured). God’s wrath is holy justice against those for whom their guilt and sin have violated His character. First John explains this relationship between the love and justice of God as complementary. Often, however, discerning the identity of the First Epistle of John prevents interpretators from appreciating the Apostle’s unique contribution to the biblical revelation. The first article herein seeks to aid the interpreter to better understand the Johannine emphases. Jerry Hullinger’s article expands upon his previous research with regard to the compatibility of the New Covenant with future animal sacrifices in the millennium. The article is significant for the Journal of Dispensational Theology because the dispensational belief has been frequently criticized as negating the once-for-all sacrificial work of Christ. Whereas many commentators believe it is impossible to affirm the literal details of Ezekiel 40—48, the second article employs the principles of consistent literalism since to do otherwise would be to assume a subjective approach to the entire passage. The final research article by Kenneth Cooper addresses this subjective approach to biblical hermeneutics, and affirms literal interpretation as the “most effective hermeneutical method.” Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth (2 Ti...