“Great God Almighty done parted the Red Sea one mo’ time!”

Here is the first installment of our study of Fleming Rutledge’s The Crucifixion: Understanding the Death of Jesus Christ.

We discussed Fleming’s first motif, Exodus and Passover, and will tackle Blood Sacrifice on Monday.

Show Notes

Summary

This conversation delves into the themes surrounding the crucifixion of Jesus, exploring its significance in Christian theology, the implications of justice and sin, and the role of the cross as a symbol of solidarity and shame. The discussion also touches on the concepts of forgiveness, atonement, and the Exodus motif, emphasizing the transformative power of remembrance in the Eucharist and the contrasting narratives of heroism and sainthood in Christianity.

Takeaways

• The crucifixion is central to Christian faith and theology.

• Fleming Rutledge's book offers deep insights into the meaning of the cross.

• The cross symbolizes both shame and solidarity with the outcast.

• Forgiveness in Christianity is costly and not simplistic.

• The Exodus story is foundational for understanding salvation.

• Remembrance in the Eucharist is an active participation in God's grace.

• Christianity often contrasts the narratives of heroes and saints.

• The cross challenges cultural notions of power and success.

• Justice and sin are intertwined in the context of the cross.

• God's initiative is central to the story of salvation.

Sound Bites

• "The cross is a problem for many people."

• "God is on the move."

• "The main actor in a saint story is God."