There are three different models for the Theories of Salvation. They are Patristic, Medieval, and Modern. Christus Victor, Ransom theory, and Ontological theory fall under Patristic. The theory of satisfaction falls under Medieval. Penal substitution falls under Modern.
Christus Victor is one of the five views of atonement. It is taken from Gustaf Aulén’s book. It is considered a mythic theory. The atonement is viewed as the divine clash and defeat over the unfavorable powers that hold humanity in servitude. Aulén argued this theory is the closest to the truth. In Aulén’s book, he describes “The result of the battle was that Christ the Victor redeemed the human race from the power of sin, death and the devil” (“Christus Victor”- The Meaning…show more content… It is considered a legendary theory. This theory describes Jesus as a bargainer. It is said that Jesus traded his death for the debt of sinning from humanity. Jesus therefore died for our sins which bought back humanity from the devil. This theory perceives God as a debtor to Satan. Ontological theory is the third one. It is considered a philosophical theory. This is when Jesus took on a human body then took on death. Once He was dead, He rises and brings everyone to divinity. Saint Athanasius is one of the most influential people for this theory. Anselm’s theory of Satisfaction is the fourth theory. It says Jesus paid for humanity’s honor with death. He gives free debt. Anselm did not agree with Ransom theory and thought of this. Therefore, Jesus’ death was for God not for Satan.
Penal substitution is the last theory. In this theory, Jesus was punished in place of human sin. Jesus suffered crucifixion as a substitute for human sin. In the article we read for class it said, “On the cross God treated Jesus as if He had lived our lives with all our sin, so that God could then treat us as if we lived Christ’s life of pure holiness” (The Scriptural Necessity of Christ’s Penal Substitution 140). Someone had to pay for our sins so Jesus did
