Für wen gilt das Werk von Jesus? Dazu gibt es zwei klassische Positionen: Die einen sehen ihre “Reichweite” für alle Menschen, die anderen ihren Effekt für die Auserwählten. Zur zweiten Position siehe die Argumente des Theologen Roger Nicole, u. a.
The real issue is the design or intent of the Father when he sent his Son to die on the cross and purchase redemption for sinners. Since all sinners do not get saved then there is either a limit in the effectiveness of the atonement or a limit in its intent. Was God doing something to save all sinners and failed? Or was God purchasing the salvation of the elect and succeeded? Historical, orthodox Christianity teaches that God had a limited intent designed for the atonement of Christ: Christ was to die for and purchase and secure the salvation of the elect. The Cross was absolutely successful in accomplishing the particular intent for which it was designed.
Lorraine Boettner compared this matter to two bridges: (1) one is a narrow bridge that goes all the way across the water, and (2) the other is a very wide bridge that doesn’t go all the way across the water. What good is the second bridge? It is as good as a theology that teaches the atonement was for all sinners but didn’t actually save any.
Zur Debatte siehe auch Thomas Schirrmacher “Starb Christus für alle Menschen?”
