Some statements of the Unification Church appear to show an appreciation for Jesus’ sacrificial death. “Did the sacrifice on the cross then come to naught?” asks Divine Principle. “Not at all (John 3:16). If it had, Christian history could not have existed.” Nevertheless, “redemption by the cross has been unable to remove our original sin . . . salvation through . . . the cross is spiritual only.” What does that mean? “If Jesus had not been crucified . . . he would have accomplished the providence of salvation both spiritually and physically. He would have established the Kingdom of Heaven on earth.”

If Jesus’ sacrifice does not suffice to save men fully, then how is one to be saved? The Unification Church has developed an elaborate doctrine of atonement, called “restoration through indemnity.” “Man, who lost the original position or status endowed at the creation, must set up certain necessary conditions in order to restore himself,” says Divine Principle. (Italics ours)

Moon’s doctrine of indemnity applies to dead persons as well as the living. He teaches that dead “spirit men” wish to participate in the good works of his followers. How do the “dead” do this? Answers Divine Principle: “The spirit men pour out spiritual fire on earthly men, give them the power to heal diseases, and help them do many mighty works. More than that, they enable earthly men to see many facts in the spirit world in a state of trance, give them the gift of prophecy, and inspire them spiritually. Through such activities, substituting for the Holy Spirit, they cooperate with earthly men to fulfill the will of God.”

Indeed, Divine Principle frankly admits that some of these “spirit men” are evil and may torment Moon’s followers, saying that if a disciple “gladly endures the torment given by the evil spirit man, . . . he can set up a condition of indemnity for his own sin and that of his ancestors.” In other words, Moon’s followers are taught that spirit possession and torment can atone for past sins!