CONTRA FATUM

The Harrowing of Hell Notes based on a sermon in ‘Morgencaféen GRACE’ (a café for homeless immigrants in Copenhagen), 21/5-2013 . The words were written after the sermon was delivered, hence not representing the full contents, though giving a broad outline. “ Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast. If I say, “Surely the darkness will hide me and the light become night around me,” even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will shine like the day, for darkness is as light to you.” (Ps 139:7-12) Prayer: Heavenly Father, we pray that you will anoint us with your Spirit, that we will gain just a small spark of understanding of how deep and unfailing your love is. Yesterday we came back from Athens....

We are currently doing a seminar on the classical idea(s) of the atonement, among which is the 'ransom theory'. The following passages from the early Church illustrate the idea (this page will be updated as we find more examples). First some important passages from the New Testament: ”For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for.” (Mark 10:45) “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great men exercise authority over them. “It is not this way among you, but whoever wishes to become great among you shall be your servant, and whoever wishes to be first among you shall be your slave; just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.” (Matt 20:25-28) "For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time." (1 Timothy 2:5-6) From The E...