This is a must read, must re-read, classic work on the atonement! It is thorough, balanced, pastoral, and biblical. Stott provides helpful analysis of the major views and theories of the atonement, pointing out the strengths and weaknesses of each. He critiques, evaluates, and draws conclusions based on sound exegesis of key texts. In terms of the historical and theological overview, one would be pressed to find a better resource.

Stott’s main purpose is to demonstrate through Scripture that satisfaction and substitution are at the heart of the biblical teaching regarding the atonement. Of all the glorious benefits that Christ achieved through His death on the cross, these are the most common to come under attack. If satisfaction be true, then God does have a holy wrath against sinners and sin must be punished. If substitution be true, then belief in Christ is the sole means of eternal salvation for He alone is the substitute for sinners. The Bible is clear, satisfaction and substitution were necessary for our salvation, and it is equally clear, God out of grace satisfied Himself by substituting His Son. As a result, believers are saved and God is glorified!!

One final note is Stott’s ability to make good life application out of such glorious doctrine. Throughout this book, but especially in the last section, Stott applies the cross to life. These are some of the richest chapters I have ever read. What else should be the result of a study of the atonement other than a deeper love for Christ? Stott’s work leads the reader in that direction.

Rid of My Disgrace: Hope and Healing for Victims of Sexual Assault. By Justin and Lindsey Holcomb. Wheaton: Crossway, 2011.

If Stott’s book is among the best historical/theological works on the atonement, Rid of My Disgrace is among the best practical applications of that doctrine. What? Let me explain, and then get this book!!!

Apart from the connection with the atonement, this is a great resource for pastors, family, and friends of sexual assault victims. First, it explains what sexual assault is, how widespread it is, and the far-reaching damages to its victims. Second, it turns to the doctrine of substitutionary atonement as the key point where victims will discover hope and healing from the ongoing effects of shame, guilt, denial, anger, self-image, and despair. What Christ provides through His death, how Christ identifies with us through His death, and what God has revealed about Himself and us through His death is where victims find lasting, real hope. Doctrine is for life!

Lastly, the Holcombs provide really great counsel throughout the book but the two appendices are extremely helpful, “Ways You Can Help a Victim” and “What to Say and What Not to Say to a Victim of Sexual Assault.”