Weekly Newsletter from Christian Vegetarian Association CVA - August 23, 2026
From Christian Vegetarian Association (CVA)

  1. Jesus as the Lamb of God and Substitutionary Atonement Theory, Part 3
  2. Get the Word Out!
  3. Our Sister Ministry
  4. Educated Choices Program

1. Jesus as the Lamb of God and Substitutionary Atonement Theory, Part 3

Two essays ago, I discussed substitutionary atonement theory, which holds that Jesus was sacrificed to atone for human sinfulness. Last time, I discussed some of the theological and social difficulties with this theory. In particular, it seems to require us to understand God as both loving and wrathful.

Some might argue that because God's wrath was fully satisfied by Jesus' perfect sacrifice, God is no longer wrathful. On this view, substitutionary atonement theory could be compatible with an image of God as purely loving, compassionate, and merciful. However, this interpretation does not adequately account for Jesus' teaching, before his death, that we should love God and love our neighbors as ourselves (Luke 10:25-28). Moreover, many faithful Christians seek vengeance when someone they love has been wronged, apparently believing that God endorses such vengeance. This belief can make it easier for Christians to justify their own violence and punishment "in the name of God."

Finally, it seems impossible to reconcile a view of God as purely loving, compassionate, and merciful with the unnecessary, worldwide, institutionalized, and massive abuse and killing of nonhuman animals by Christians and non-Christians alike. Either such practices are an affront to God, or we must conclude that God is not purely loving, compassionate, and merciful.

Next, I will offer a different way of understanding Jesus as the Lamb of God.

Stephen R. Kaufman, M.D.

2. Get the Word Out!

The CVA has booklets, T-shirts, and bumper stickers to help tell the world that a plant-based diet helps protect God's Creation. Visit www.christianveg.org.

Also, contact Lorena at LorenaValenziVeg@gmail.com if you might be interested in volunteering for the CVA. Opportunities include tabling; leafleting at Christian concerts, revivals, and other events; and giving presentations in your church. We have resources to assist these and other ways to advocate for a kinder, more merciful, and just world.

3. Our Sister Ministry

Visit www.All-Creatures.Org for a wealth of information about Christian vegan ethics and vegan lifestyles.

4. Educated Choices Program

The ECP has several online programs that educators use to teach students about the importance of plant-based eating for animals, the environment, and our health. For more information, go to https://www.ecprogram.org/

Please support the CVA! At www.christianveg.org/materials.htm, you can find literature, T-shirts, bumper stickers and more, and donations are always welcomed!

2026 Newsletters Archive