Term
the moral-exemplary theory
The theory that Jesus' life and death served primarily as an example of self-sacrificial love to inspire character transformation.
Filed underChristologySoteriology
Definition
The atonement theory that suggests that the primary purpose of Jesus' life and death was to serve as an example of self-sacrificial love, inspiring believers to follow his path and cultivate a transformed character, rather than a punishment or payment for sin.
Connections
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- Synonym of
Sources
- 1.Crisp, Oliver D. Moral Exemplarism and Atonement. (Scottish Journal of Theology 73).Original citation: Crisp, Oliver D. "Moral Exemplarism and Atonement." Scottish Journal of Theology 73, no. 2 (May 2020): 137–149.
Last revised August 14, 2026