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Semi-Pelagianism This is a somewhat moderate form of
Pelagianism. Whereas in Pelagianism">
Semi-Pelagianism This is a somewhat moderate form of
Pelagianism. Whereas in Pelagianism, there is the understanding that humans must
live moral and superior lives in order to receive salvation, in classic Semi-Pelagianism,
there is the belief that it is impossible to live sinless lives. Therefore, the
only way that people can receive salvation is through God*s
grace alone. However, there is a catch! In order for humans to receive this
grace, they must first turn to God and ask
for it. God*s
grace, forgiveness, and salvation can be given only to those who seek God
and
petition God for it. Salvation is dependent
solely on the strength of our faith in Jesus Christ. Therefore, salvation
both in semi-Pelagianism and in Pelagianism is based first and foremost on human
initiative. We must do something first before God "saves" us. This position became the official Roman Catholic understanding of salvation
at the beginning of the Middle Ages. Though the Protestant reformers rejected
it, it managed to infiltrate Protestant theology after the Enlightenment. The
Great Awakening and other revival movements in American history have made this
position particularly popular in Protestant Christianity in America. Today,
practically all Christian denominations who label themselves
"evangelicals," and some Christians of other denominations as well,
officially adopt a Semi-Pelagian understanding of salvation. Key Texts: John 3:18 18 Those who believe in him are not
condemned; but those who do not believe are condemned already, because they have
not believed in the name of the only Son of God. John 6:40 40 This is indeed the will of my
Father, that all who see the Son and believe in him may have eternal life; and I
will raise them up on the last day. Acts 2:21 21 Then everyone who calls
on the name of the Lord shall be saved. Rev.3:20 20 Listen! I am standing at the
door, knocking; if you hear my voice and
open the door, I will come in to you and eat with you, and you with me. Return to
Four Understandings of Salvation Page |