Q&A Home > A > Atonement

• There is an online debate going on between several Coptic Christians regarding what is sometimes referred to as “penal substitution.” Many state that there is no component of atonement whatsoever regarding Jesus's death on the cross, and that the purpose was not only defeating death. However, it appears from many writings in the Bible and some writings (such as St. Athanasius) that this is a part of Jesus's death. What is the Coptic Church's official view of this? (From my understanding even though the Church may believe there is an atonement part, it would not be called penal substitution under the Church because the focus is on both atonement and Jesus's victory over death, not mostly on God's wrath and punishment.) It would be wonderful to get clarification directly from the Church to put this issue to rest. There is a lot of bad love (unfortunately) going on Facebook between Copts and it is confusing a lot of new converts (like myself) and others.