Lecture 7: The Doctrine of Salvation, cont.

Question 1

Define initial justification.

Answer 1

By God’s grace alone, we are made righteous. (From Augustine)

Question 2

What is justice linked to in the Old Testament?

Answer 2

Righteousness

Question 3

Define justification.

Answer 3

To be put into a right relationship with God.

Question 4

Describe Luther’s understanding of justification.

Answer 4

Justification imputes us as righteous - God “credits our account” or declares us righteous.

Question 5

Describe Calvin’s understanding of justification.

Answer 5

Calvin also agreed with Luther, but stressed that we only participate in and enjoy righteousness through our connection to Christ.

Question 6

What is the effectual calling?

Answer 6

This is the call to convert by the Holy Spirit. It always results in conversion.

Question 7

Which group of theologians believed in two types of calling with respect to salvation?

Answer 7

Reformed / Calvinist

Question 8

Define subsequent justification.

Answer 8

We actively obey God and by this, we merit salvation. This includes participating in the sacraments, being obedient, etc. (From Augustine)

Question 9

Describe Augustine’s understanding of justification.

Answer 9

Justification imparts righteousness to us, by placing God’s law upon our hearts so we are changed in order to follow the law.

Question 10

What criticism did the Arminians have for the theory of two calls?

Answer 10

If God has chosen some people already for salvation and some for damnation, the general call either is not honest or the general call does not exist.

Question 11

What did Aristotle say about justice?

Answer 11

It is one of the four cardinal virtues, though meaning primarily civil virtue.

Question 12

Give Augustine’s two stages of justification.

Answer 12

Initial justification

Subsequent justification

Question 13

What did the Arminians believe could be an appropriate use of the distinction between general and effectual call?

Answer 13

This same language could be used after the fact of the call based on response. However, there is only one call.

Question 14

Define tsadiq.

Answer 14

This Hebrew word means “to be in the right” with God. Justice here means being in a right relationship.

Question 15

What is the general calling?

Answer 15

This is the call to convert whenever the gospel is proclaimed. It is accompanied by the Holy Spirit to small extent but will be rejected by some.