Propitiation & Expiation
While both terms are related to the atonement, they highlight different aspects:
- **Expiation** deals with the removal of sin and guilt.
- **Propitiation** deals with the appeasement of God's wrath.
In Reformed theology, the terms "propitiation" and "expiation" are crucial in understanding the atoning work of Christ, but they refer to different aspects of this work.
Expiation
Expiation refers to the removal or covering of sin. The term comes from the Latin word "expiare," which means to make amends or atone for guilt. In theological terms, expiation involves taking away the guilt of sin through a sacrificial offering. It focuses on the act of atonement itself, where the penalty for sin is paid, and the guilt is removed from the sinner. This concept is often illustrated by the Old Testament sacrificial system, where the blood of the sacrifice symbolically covered the sins of the people[2][3].
Propitiation
Propitiation, on the other hand, involves the appeasement or satisfaction of God's wrath against sin. The term comes from the Latin word "propitiare," which means to appease or placate. In theological terms, propitiation means that Christ's sacrifice not only removes sin but also turns away God's righteous anger towards sinners. This change in God's disposition is essential for restoring the relationship between God and humanity. Propitiation emphasizes that God's wrath is justly satisfied through the atoning work of Christ, allowing God to be favorable towards sinners[2][3].
Distinction and Relationship
While both terms are related to the atonement, they highlight different aspects:
- **Expiation** deals with the removal of sin and guilt.
- **Propitiation** deals with the appeasement of God's wrath.
In Reformed theology, these concepts are not mutually exclusive but rather complementary. Christ's work on the cross accomplished both expiation and propitiation. By removing sin (expiation), Christ also satisfied the wrath of God (propitiation), thus restoring believers to a right relationship with God. This dual aspect underscores the comprehensive nature of Christ's atonement, addressing both the problem of sin and the need for divine justice[2][3].
In summary, expiation and propitiation are two facets of the atonement that together describe the full scope of Christ's redemptive work, covering sin and satisfying God's wrath to reconcile sinners to Himself.
Citations:
[1] https://www.puritanboard.com/threads/expiation-vs-propitiation.40811/
[2] https://www.ligonier.org/learn/articles/two-important-words-good-friday-expiation-and-propitiation
[3] https://www.christianity.com/wiki/salvation/whats-the-difference-between-expiation-and-propitiation.html
[4] https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts/ask-ligonier/what-is-propitiation
[5] https://orthodoxchristiantheology.com/2015/08/04/expiation-versus-propitiation-of-sins/
[6] https://blogs.ancientfaith.com/wholecounsel/2019/07/16/propitiation-and-expiation/
[7] https://christianity.stackexchange.com/questions/7151/what-are-the-primary-differences-and-implications-of-a-propitiatory-view-of-the
[8] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e76qAlx1VIY
