Pairing insightful biblical exegesis and a nuanced understanding of theology, McKnight pulls back the veil on atonement theology, allowing the reader to see passed individual theories and begin to construct a paradigm (or “embracive categories”) for utilizing each of the major atonement metaphors in scripture and atonement theories in theology – “identification for incorporation”. McKnight walks the reader through the scriptural foundations of atonement: the metaphors, moments, stories, and practices that inform the biblical portrayal of atonement. McKnight does not theologize for theologies sake, however, but ends with a stirring treatment of atonement as ecclesial (i.e. gives birth to a community, or new society; Jesus’ "Kingdom of Heaven”) and as praxis (i.e. its influence on fellowship, justice, mission, word, and sacrament). A compelling read. A. ( )