Brushwood Press

BRUSHFIRES | WEEK 15

A Discipleship Series from Brushwood Press | BrushwoodPress.com

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Core Doctrine:

Definite Atonement – Limited Atonement (Particular Redemption)

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Verse:

John 10:14–15 (CSB)
“I am the good shepherd. I know my own, and my own know me, just as the Father knows me, and I know the Father. I lay down my life for the sheep.”

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Book Context:

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In John 10, Jesus contrasts Himself with false shepherds—those who exploit the flock. He calls Himself the Good Shepherd—one who knows, protects, and ultimately lays down His life for His sheep. In verses 14–15, He ties His sacrificial death not to humanity in general, but to His own. The parallel between His knowledge of the Father and His relationship with His people reveals a deep, intentional, and particular love. This isn’t a vague offer—it’s a targeted rescue.

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Core Doctrine Explanation:

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The doctrine of Definite Atonement (often called Limited Atonement) teaches that Christ’s death was not a general payment for all people without distinction, but a specific and effective sacrifice for His people—His sheep, His bride, His church. Jesus didn’t die to make salvation possible; He died to secure it for those the Father had given Him.

John 10 makes this clear. Jesus knows His sheep. He calls them by name. He lays down His life for them. The cross wasn’t a gamble. It was a guarantee. Every drop of blood had a purpose, and not one was wasted.

This doesn’t make God’s love small—it makes it personal. Christ didn’t die vaguely hoping someone might respond. He died knowing exactly who He was saving.

Danger of Not Holding to the Core Doctrine – Week 15: Definite Atonement – Limited Atonement (Particular Redemption)

If we believe Christ died for everyone in the same way, we risk turning the cross into a general offer instead of a guaranteed purchase. We start to see the atonement as potential, not powerful—as something that might save rather than something that does save.

The danger here is subtle but serious. We may still affirm that Jesus died, but we begin to assume that His death only becomes effective if we accept it. That shifts the power of salvation away from Christ’s sacrifice and onto our response. And when that happens, assurance crumbles. We wonder if we’ve done enough, believed enough, held on long enough.

Sometimes we resist this doctrine because it feels exclusive. We want to make the gospel feel wide. But the truth is, Scripture already tells us the gospel is exclusive—only those who believe will be saved. What this doctrine clarifies is that Jesus didn’t die hoping someone would believe—He died to ensure that they would.

To reject definite atonement is to risk making the cross a possibility rather than a triumph. But to embrace it is to worship a Savior who really did pay it all—for real people with real names, real sins, and real destinies.

This truth doesn’t make evangelism harder. It makes it bolder. We preach to everyone, knowing that God has a people, and His word will not return void. The Good Shepherd still calls His sheep—and they still hear His voice.

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Conversational Evangelism:

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Many people believe Jesus died for everyone—and they struggle to understand why some still reject Him. You might ask:
“If Jesus already paid for someone’s sins on the cross, is it possible for them to still go to hell?”

Then gently offer this:

“What if Jesus didn’t die for everyone generically—but for His people specifically—and He made sure they’d come to Him?”

This moves the conversation from a vague hope to a victorious Savior.

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Call to Action:

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This week, reflect on this truth: Christ didn’t just die for “the world.” He died for you. Personally. Intentionally. By name.

Let that bring you comfort when you doubt. Let it bring you boldness when you share. And let it bring you to your knees in gratitude, because the Shepherd didn’t hesitate—He laid down His life for you.

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Fire Starter Question:

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When did you first realize that Jesus didn’t just die for “people”—He died for you—and how did that change the way you worship?

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