I’ve heard the penal substitionary atonement doctrine concerning Jesus’ death and resurrection for our sins criticized as “cosmic child abuse” and for making the Father out to be some kind of vindictive monster. I’ve also heard some pretty scathing criticisms of said critics that themselves make my skin crawl. I don’t know that I’m particularly pleased with either “side” in this debate. Isn’t there some kind of common ground we can settle on that’s respectful of Scripture and yet encourages unity within an already far-too-fragmented Church?