Canons of Dordt, Head II: Limited (effectual) atonement
Engelsma provides a comprehensive theological exposition of the doctrine of limited atonement as defined in the second head of the Canons of Dort, explaining that Christ's atoning death was efficacious for the elect alone rather than all humanity. The article defends this Reformed doctrine against Arminian objections and clarifies its relationship to God's eternal decree of predestination. This resource is essential for understanding a foundational tenet of Reformed theology and its historical formulation at the Synod of Dort.
Introduction The second of the doctrines in the Canons of Dordt that teach and defend the gospel of salvation by grace alone is the truth of the death of Jesus Christ as effectual atonement of God's elect people, and of the elect only. Atonement is the reconciliation of sinful humans to God by the satisfying of the justice of God. This satisfaction is the payment to God of the suffering of the punishment of sin that God's justice demands and the rendering to God of the obedience to His law...
Full article available on sb.rfpa.org