Atonement theories are theories meant to explain how Christ reconciles sinners with the Father; there are good ones and bad ones. In the story of the Prodigal Son, we find the sinner welcomed by the overwhelming love of the father. The father did not need for his wrath, anger, or justice to be satisfied. His love ran to welcome the returning son. The only angry person in the story who demanded justice was the elder brother, who turned out to be a very bad example. The God revealed in the person, ministry and stories of Jesus is not a God full of wrath out to get you; He is a God full of overflowing love racing to welcome the lost and wayward back home. John said, “God is Love” and I believe it.
“So he got up and went to his father. “But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.” (Luke 15:20 NIV)
