Irenaeus and Tertullian offer two greatly differing theories of atonement. Both of these theories, though, deal with the issues of divinity versus humanity, love versus justice, help from above versus help from below. Both theories have valid points, but both also have dangerous implications for the Church today.
Irenaeus theory of atonement (“Christus Victor”) focuses on the divinity of God’s plan ofˇ salvation. Jesus is seen as the divine Son of God and salvation comes from God essentially bringing man up to him through Jesus. It is theology “from above.” The statement, “God became man so that man could become God,” demonstrates how Irenaeus felt about the influence of divine help in regard to salvation. The good aspect of this theory is that it presents God as a loving reconciler and Jesus as His redeemer for humanity and nature.
Tertullian’s theory of atonement (“Penal Justice”), however, focuses on the humanity of Jesus in the plan of salvation. Jesus is seen as the Son of Man who has to die and be lifted up as a sacrifice in order for man to be saved. The statement, “Jesus came and died for our sins,” shows how Tertullian felt about the quintessential role of Jesus concerning salvation and forgiveness of all of humanity.
In essence, this is theology “from below.” The beneficial aspects of this theory are that the understanding of propitiation for sins is explained, an ethical standard is promoted, and Jesus is seen as the reconciler and mediator of humanity to God. Although both of these theories have helpful elements in understanding God, Jesus, and salvation, they also have dangerous implications that could distort theology in our modern-day churches. If you only focus on Irenaeus’ theory then Jesus’ humanity is ignored, God’s love in only focused on, and human morality is downplayed. If you focus only on Tertullian’s theory of atonement, then Jesus’ divinity might be unappreciated, human ethics and morality might be over-emphasized, and God’s justice might be focused on and not his love.
Both theories have pros and cons so perhaps the best place to be is balanced between them, understanding that like two sides of a gold coin, salvation is impossible without the divinity and the humanity meeting together and forming something precious.