Faith or Salvation: Which Comes First?

Apr 26
16:07

2024

Bruce McLaughlin

Bruce McLaughlin

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Exploring the intricate relationship between faith and salvation in Christian theology, this article delves into whether faith is a prerequisite for salvation or a consequence of it. We examine differing theological perspectives, particularly focusing on Reformed and Wesleyan/Arminian views, and analyze scriptural interpretations to understand this complex dynamic.

Theological Perspectives on Faith and Salvation

Christian theology presents varied interpretations regarding the sequence of faith and salvation. The debate centers around whether faith leads to salvation,Faith or Salvation: Which Comes First? Articles or if salvation must occur before faith can truly be realized.

Reformed Theology: Salvation Precedes Faith

Reformed theology, often associated with Calvinism, posits that human nature is so depraved that individuals are incapable of faith or repentance without divine intervention. This perspective is rooted in the belief in total depravity, which suggests that every aspect of humanity is tainted by sin, thus incapacitating individuals from making the initial move towards God. According to this view, salvation through the monergistic work of the Holy Spirit must precede faith. The Holy Spirit regenerates the individual, enabling them to exhibit faith, repentance, and obedience. Key scriptural references supporting this view include:

  • Ephesians 2:8-9: "For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast."
  • John 6:44: "No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him. And I will raise him up on the last day."

Wesleyan/Arminian Theology: Faith Precedes Salvation

Contrasting with Reformed theology, Wesleyan/Arminian theology argues that while human nature is indeed fallen, God extends Prevenient Grace to all individuals. This grace enables them to make a free will decision to embrace faith. In this view, an individual must first exhibit faith, which then leads to salvation. This sequence emphasizes human responsibility in the salvation process. Supporters of this view cite passages such as:

  • Romans 10:9-10: "If you declare with your mouth, 'Jesus is Lord,' and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved."
  • Acts 16:31: "They replied, 'Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household.'"

Scriptural Case Study: The Beatitudes

The Beatitudes, as presented in Matthew 5:3-10, offer a profound insight into the characteristics that mark the lives of those blessed by God. These statements by Jesus during the Sermon on the Mount can be seen as a spiritual progression or roadmap to salvation:

  1. Poor in spirit: Recognizing spiritual bankruptcy.
  2. Mourn: Grieving over one's sins.
  3. Meek: Submitting to God's will.
  4. Hunger and thirst for righteousness: Desiring a deep relationship with God.
  5. Merciful: Showing compassion, reflecting God's mercy.
  6. Pure in heart: Seeking sincerity and purity in one’s devotion.
  7. Peacemakers: Fostering reconciliation, mirroring the peace of Christ.
  8. Persecuted for righteousness: Suffering for the sake of righteousness.

These Beatitudes can be interpreted as steps towards receiving salvation, suggesting a sequence where confession, remorse, and repentance precede the reception of salvation, aligning more closely with Wesleyan/Arminian theology.

Conclusion

The debate between whether faith precedes salvation or vice versa is deeply rooted in scriptural interpretation and theological tradition. Both Reformed and Wesleyan/Arminian perspectives offer compelling arguments supported by scripture. Ultimately, the individual's journey in faith and understanding of scripture may influence their view on this theological issue.

For further reading on Reformed theology, visit Desiring God and for Wesleyan/Arminian perspectives, check out Seedbed.

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