Limited atonement (or definite atonement or particular redemption) is a doctrine accepted in some Christian theological traditions. It is particularly associated with the Reformed tradition and is one of the five points of Calvinism. The doctrine states that Jesus Christ's substitutionary atonement on the cross is specifically designed for the elect only, that He only died for them. This is in contrast to a belief that Christ died for all, but while this atonement is sufficient for the salvation of all, it is only efficient for the elect, those who receive Christ, these being predestined unto salvation. Thus its primary benefits are not given to all of humanity due to unbelief. However this is not a classical view.
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Famous quotes containing the words limited and/or atonement:
“...women were fighting for limited freedom, the vote and more education. I wanted all the freedom, all the opportunity, all the equality there was in the world. I wanted to belong to the human race, not to a ladies’ aid society to the human race.”
—Rheta Childe Dorr (1866–1948)
“What atonement is there for blood spilt upon the earth?”
—Aeschylus (525–456 B.C.)