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Augustine's Response to the Sack of Rome and Theological Battles. Professor Katherine Conybeare discusses Augustine, the African, and his response to the 410 AD sacking of Rome, which motivated him to write The City of God. The work defends Christianity by arguing Rome was always vulnerable. The source also covers the "rigged" Council of Carthage against the Donatists, Augustine's role in developing the just war theory, and his debate against Pelagianism, which led to the formulation of original sin, transmitted through sexual intercourse. 1911 CARTHAGE
Augustine's Response to the Sack of Rome and Theological Battles. Professor Katherine Conybeare discusses Augustine, the African, and his response to the 410 AD sacking of Rome, which motivated him to write The City of God. The work defends Christianity by arguing Rome was always vulnerable. The source also covers the "rigged" Council of Carthage against the Donatists, Augustine's role in developing the just war theory, and his debate against Pelagianism, which led to the formulation of original sin, transmitted through sexual intercourse.
Augustine's Response to the Sack of Rome and Theological Battles. Professor Katherine Conybeare discusses Augustine, the African, and his response to the 410 AD sacking of Rome, which motivated him to write The City of God. The work defends Christianity by arguing Rome was always vulnerable. The source also covers the "rigged" Council of Carthage against the Donatists, Augustine's role in developing the just war theory, and his debate against Pelagianism, which led to the formulation of original sin, transmitted through sexual intercourse.
Augustine's Response to the Sack of Rome and Theological Battles. Professor Katherine Conybeare discusses Augustine, the African, and his response to the 410 AD sacking of Rome, which motivated him to write The City of God. The work defends Christianity by arguing Rome was always vulnerable. The source also covers the "rigged" Council of Carthage against the Donatists, Augustine's role in developing the just war theory, and his debate against Pelagianism, which led to the formulation of original sin, transmitted through sexual intercourse.
SHOW 11-7-25 CBS EYE ON THE WORLD WITH JOHN BATCHELOR THE SHOW BEGINS IN THE DOUBTS ABOUT THE MUCH DEBATED AI VALUATIONS. FIRST HOUR 9-915 California Politics and West Coast Issues. Jeff Bliss reports on California Governor Gavin Newsom's successful Proposition 50 to reshape congressional districts, a move linked to increasing Newsom's presidential visibility. Newsom's public persona is increasingly marked by anger and profanity aimed at political opponents. Other issues include Las Vegas resorts reconsidering "nickel-and-diming" practices, ongoing regulatory hurdles delaying rebuilding in Maui, and routine fires in LA's growing homeless encampments. 915-930 Canadian Politics, US Trade Relations, and Energy Pipeline Development. Conrad Black discusses a domestic Canadian political misunderstanding involving Prime Minister Mark Carney and Premier Doug Ford over an anti-tariff ad that annoyed President Trump. The focus shifts to Canadian energy policy, noting the need for new pipelines to move oil from Alberta east, west, and south. Carney's government has tentatively agreed to approve a second pipeline to northern British Columbia, which would more than double the daily oil shipment capacity to the west. 930-945 Supreme Court Arguments on Presidential Tariff Authority and NYC Mayor-Elect. Professor Richard Epstein analyzes Supreme Court arguments regarding the President's expansive use of a 1977 law to impose tariffs, predicting a likely 7-2 ruling against the administration. Epstein argues that viewing successful worldwide trade as an "emergency" is intellectually flawed and an abuse of executive discretion. Separately, he expresses concern that New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani, a self-proclaimed socialist lacking administrative experience, risks impoverishing the city by ignoring competitive federalism. 945-1000 Supreme Court Arguments on Presidential Tariff Authority and NYC Mayor-Elect. Professor Richard Epstein analyzes Supreme Court arguments regarding the President's expansive use of a 1977 law to impose tariffs, predicting a likely 7-2 ruling against the administration. Epstein argues that viewing successful worldwide trade as an "emergency" is intellectually flawed and an abuse of executive discretion. Separately, he expresses concern that New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani, a self-proclaimed socialist lacking administrative experience, risks impoverishing the city by ignoring competitive federalism. SECOND HOUR 10-1015 Economic Slowdown and Election Observations in Indiana and Pennsylvania. Jim McTague identifies signs of an economic slowdown affecting people beyond the lowest economic rung. Restaurant business in Indiana is down 3 to 5%, and expensive home renovations have "dried up." Costco shoppers are exhibiting extreme caution, buying essentials with little impulse spending. In Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, a large turnout resulted in Democratic victories, suggesting voter reaction against local Republicans perceived as "Trumpists." Anticipated layoffs at Amazon and Walmart are expected to impact local employment. 1015-1030 Italian Defense Strategy and the Geopolitical Situation. Lorenzo Fiori discusses Italy's defense buildup using EU loan deals to acquire new armored vehicles from Germany's Rheinmetall through a joint venture with Leonardo. This modernization is crucial as Italy is strategically situated near the Ukrainian conflict and faces risks from troubled North African countries, particularly potential Russian influence in Libya. Although the military is needed for disaster relief, public opinion often remains against increasing defense expenditures. 1030-1045 Spacefaring News: NASA, SpaceX Records, and Global Space Issues. Bob Zimmerman reports on the renomination of Jared Isaacman as NASA administrator following a previous withdrawal. SpaceX is setting new launch records, aiming for close to 180 launches this year, though an FAA launch curfew might jeopardize this prediction. Other topics include Boeing avoiding criminal charges regarding the 737 Max crashes, opposition to the EU Space Act, Starlab's commercial space station development, and China's stranded crew due to space debris damage to their Shenzhou capsule. 1045-1100 Spacefaring News: NASA, SpaceX Records, and Global Space Issues. Bob Zimmerman reports on the renomination of Jared Isaacman as NASA administrator following a previous withdrawal. SpaceX is setting new launch records, aiming for close to 180 launches this year, though an FAA launch curfew might jeopardize this prediction. Other topics include Boeing avoiding criminal charges regarding the 737 Max crashes, opposition to the EU Space Act, Starlab's commercial space station development, and China's stranded crew due to space debris damage to their Shenzhou capsule. THIRD HOUR 1100-1115 Augustine's Response to the Sack of Rome and Theological Battles. Professor Katherine Conybeare discusses Augustine, the African, and his response to the 410 AD sacking of Rome, which motivated him to write The City of God. The work defends Christianity by arguing Rome was always vulnerable. The source also covers the "rigged" Council of Carthage against the Donatists, Augustine's role in developing the just war theory, and his debate against Pelagianism, which led to the formulation of original sin, transmitted through sexual intercourse. 1115-1130 1130-1145 1145-1200 FOURTH HOUR 12-1215 Nuclear Proliferation Concerns Regarding Small Modular Reactors and Weapons Testing. Henry Sokolski raises proliferation concerns about Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) using High-Assay Low-Enriched Uranium (HALEU) fuel (20% enriched). Declassified cables from 1954 and 1977 suggested that uranium above 10% requires special concern, demanding a review before SMRs are exported. Sokolski also clarifies that US maintenance of its nuclear arsenal relies on non-critical tests and simulations, not full-yield explosions, though adversaries may be conducting critical tests. 1215-1230 Nuclear Proliferation Concerns Regarding Small Modular Reactors and Weapons Testing. Henry Sokolski raises proliferation concerns about Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) using High-Assay Low-Enriched Uranium (HALEU) fuel (20% enriched). Declassified cables from 1954 and 1977 suggested that uranium above 10% requires special concern, demanding a review before SMRs are exported. Sokolski also clarifies that US maintenance of its nuclear arsenal relies on non-critical tests and simulations, not full-yield explosions, though adversaries may be conducting critical tests. 1230-1245 The Trillion-Dollar Space Race: Musk (Hare) vs. Bezos (Tortoise). Richard Smith compares the space race between Elon Musk's SpaceX ("the hare") and Jeff Bezos's Blue Origin ("the tortoise"). Blue Origin operates under the cautious motto Gradatim Ferociter, funded by Bezos's personal wealth, aiming to move heavy industry off Earth. SpaceX is driven by Musk's "existential" goal to make humanity interplanetary, operating with urgency. SpaceX ensures independence by funding its ambitious projects, including Starship, through the revenue generated by Starlink. 1245-100 AM The Trillion-Dollar Space Race: Musk (Hare) vs. Bezos (Tortoise). Richard Smith compares the space race between Elon Musk's SpaceX ("the hare") and Jeff Bezos's Blue Origin ("the tortoise"). Blue Origin operates under the cautious motto Gradatim Ferociter, funded by Bezos's personal wealth, aiming to move heavy industry off Earth. SpaceX is driven by Musk's "existential" goal to make humanity interplanetary, operating with urgency. SpaceX ensures independence by funding its ambitious projects, including Starship, through the revenue generated by Starlink.
Defenders: Doctrine of Man (Part 23): Original Sin: Semi-Pelagianism, Reformation, Enlightenment, Modern Era
00:00 Emily and Edmund kick off the episode by introducing the sixth and seventh petitions: “Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil”. They explore how modern generations oscillate between moral relativism and hyper-vigilance about right and wrong, despite many still praying regularly. This sets the stage for examining how the Catechism helps us discern objective morality amid today's shifting cultural views. 08:08 Edmund and Emily show how over-intellectualizing the Faith led to two extremes, either thinking we can resist temptation on our own (Pelagianism) or feeling powerless without special election (Jansenism). These often show up today as indifference or scrupulosity. They unpack the Greek roots of “lead us not into temptation,” noting it means both “don't let us enter” and “don't let us yield,” and encourage praying for God's help to trust His will and avoid yielding to temptation.15:46 Edmund and Emily emphasize that temptation isn't sinful, only yielding to it is. They encourage humility and reliance on God's grace instead of shame. Using everyday examples like marital frustrations over an unloaded dishwasher, they show how praying for virtues (e.g., patience) can help in the midst of temptation. They highlight the Catechism's wisdom on discernment, distinguishing growth-forming trials from temptations that lead to sin and discuss the importance of avoiding both indifference and scrupulosity.22:15 Edmund and Emily illustrate how charity and community can justly take precedence over strict observance, reminding us that relationship trumps anxious rule-keeping. They stress discernment in distinguishing between trials and temptations. The motto: “rules without relationship lead to rebellion,” highlights the heart's posture in prayer. 28:05 Edmund and Emily wrap up with practical tips for catechists: integrate the Ten Commandments into prayer by guiding an examination of conscience that moves beyond a checklist to a heartfelt dialogue with God. They stress honest, heart-level prayer and bringing specific struggles before Jesus, asking for grace so that doctrine informs our lived encounter, not just intellectual assent.An OSV Podcasts partner. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.
(Romans 3:9-20)Today, we camp on these verses for a bit by talking more theological. What is the place of theology? What is Pelagianism? What is total depravity? We start to explore these concepts in today's conversation.We trust it would bless you!Don't forget to leave a rating and share it with a friend!Got any questions? Feel free to reach out to me (Daniel Babalola) on IG: @daniel.babz--------------------------------------------If you want to be a part of the ongoing live zoom teachings, we meet every Saturday at 9am CST:Zoom ID: 89834204951Password: epistles-------------------------------------------Benediction:I am a diligent student and doer of the word.I am a teacher of the word.The word is profitable for my growth.Call: By the wordRes: I am correctedCall: By the wordRes: I am trained in righteousnessCall: And in the wordRes: My spirit rejoices!
Matt Slick Live (Live Broadcast of 07/30/2025) is a production of the Christian Apologetics Research Ministry (CARM). Matt answers questions on topics such as: The Bible, Apologetics, Theology, World Religions, Atheism, and other issues! You can also email questions to Matt using: info@carm.org, Put "Radio Show Question" in the Subject line! Answers will be discussed in a future show. Topics Include:Grace and Believers/ When Did The Different Races Begin?/ Matt Gives Tips on Witnessing to Mormons/ What is Pelagianism?/ What Does The Word “Ashamed” Refer to?/ “The Way International,” Who Are They?/What About The “Jesus Only” Heresy?/ Does God Grant Prayers About Finding a Wife?/ July 30, 2025
Matt Slick Live (Live Broadcast of 07/30/2025) is a production of the Christian Apologetics Research Ministry (CARM). Matt answers questions on topics such as: The Bible, Apologetics, Theology, World Religions, Atheism, and other issues! You can also email questions to Matt using: info@carm.org, Put "Radio Show Question" in the Subject line! Answers will be discussed in a future show. Topics Include: Grace and Believers/ When Did The Different Races Begin?/ Matt Gives Tips on Witnessing to Mormons/ What is Pelagianism?/ What Does The Word "Ashamed" Refer to?/ "The Way International," Who Are They?/What About The "Jesus Only" Heresy?/ Does God Grant Prayers About Finding a Wife?/ July 30, 2025
Matt Slick Live (Live Broadcast of 07/30/2025) is a production of the Christian Apologetics Research Ministry (CARM). Matt answers questions on topics such as: The Bible, Apologetics, Theology, World Religions, Atheism, and other issues! You can also email questions to Matt using: info@carm.org, Put "Radio Show Question" in the Subject line! Answers will be discussed in a future show. Topics Include:Grace and Believers/ When Did The Different Races Begin?/ Matt Gives Tips on Witnessing to Mormons/ What is Pelagianism?/ What Does The Word “Ashamed” Refer to?/ “The Way International,” Who Are They?/What About The “Jesus Only” Heresy?/ Does God Grant Prayers About Finding a Wife?/ July 30, 2025
This session offers a critique of the Pelagian heresy present in nearly all centuries of this age.
In today's class we discuss the heresy of Nestorianism, its connection to Pelagianism, the Marian title "Theotokos," and how the theological distinction between justification and sanctification remains important today.
A new MP3 sermon from Christian Answers of Austin is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: Pelagianism 101 By Leighton Flowers: Do It Yourself Salvation With Your Free Will & N Speaker: Dr. James White Broadcaster: Christian Answers of Austin Event: Sunday Service Date: 5/28/2025 Bible: Ephesians 2:8-9; John 14:6 Length: 34 min.
In this episode, we explore a troubling trend among certain corners of modern Protestantism: the revival of ancient heresies long condemned by the Church. At the center of our discussion is Pelagius, the 5th-century British monk whose denial of original sin and distortion of grace led to one of the most decisive theological battles in Christian history.We'll unpack Pelagius's core teachings, examine Augustine's powerful response, and trace how this controversy culminated in the Council of Ephesus (431), where Pelagianism was formally condemned as heresy. Along the way, we'll consider how various popes weighed in on the controversy, especially Innocent I and Zosimus, and reflect on how some contemporary theological movements are unknowingly echoing these same ancient errors.This isn't just about history—it's about doctrine, grace, and the ongoing need for theological clarity. If the Church has already fought these battles, why are we dancing with heretics again today?If you'd like to donate to our ministry or be a monthly partner that receives newsletters and one on one discussions with Dr. Boyce, here's a link: https://give.tithe.ly/?formId=6381a2ee-b82f-42a7-809e-6b733cec05a7 ⸻#Pelagius #Pelagianism #OriginalSin #Augustine #CouncilOfEphesus #ChurchHistory #AncientHeresies #ProtestantTheology #ModernHeresy #ReclaimOrthodoxy #DancingWithHeretics #Soteriology #PopesOnPelagius #ChristianDoctrine #HistoricalTheology
Come buy our indulgences...Nick Cavazos discusses why he is a glad trad, and we finally go gloves off about dancing!00:00:00 Introduction00:01:36 Nick's regular appearance on Avoiding Babylon00:03:50 Is Nick Cavazos a Glad Trad?00:13:12 Rad Trads and America's founding00:21:00 "Radical Traditionalism leads to a rational Pelagianism"00:24:00 On the SSPV and other traditional groups00:29:11 Trads have no joy00:32:38 The Faith was taken from people00:39:47 Trads begin to grumble about their churches 00:45:35 The next pope could undo Francis' work00:50:21 The rupture between nature and grace in theolog00:58:56 Here we go... dancing!01:10:41 The singleness crisis among young Catholics01:18:24 Your most radical Traditional positionThank you to our Patrons / Channel Members:Jason YaokamKate ElminiCarol JBrenda AllorAllan SmithKathryn BurksEmilio PereaFollow us @gladtradpodcast Video Episodes on Youtube
Augustine powerfully defended Christian doctrines against the heresies of his day, including Pelagianism. He also expressed his love for God in his Confessions. The post Augustine of Hippo: The Bishop and Poet – Part 2 appeared first on Two Journeys.
Augustine powerfully defended Christian doctrines against the heresies of his day, including Pelagianism. He also expressed his love for God in his Confessions. The post Augustine of Hippo: The Bishop and Poet – Part 2 appeared first on Two Journeys.
Augustine powerfully defended Christian doctrines against the heresies of his day, including Pelagianism. He also expressed his love for God in his Confessions. The post Augustine of Hippo: The Bishop and Poet – Part 2 appeared first on Two Journeys.
In this video, We read through a section of Phillip Schaff's "History of the Christian Church" entitled External History of the Pelagian Controversy. We discover that the controversy between Pelagius and Augustine is much more complicated and detailed than many modern accounts you will hear. We see how having this more in depth knowledge of the history will equip you to respond to non-calvinists and their claims about Pelagianism and Augustine.
In this episode I talk about the real dangers of modern Arminianism and how this religion is really nothing more than ancient Pelagianism with a Christian mask.
Andre sits in the Captain's Chair and throws down an amazing quotation from the English poet Robert Browning and the guys bat it around all over the board, discussing Pelagianism, the nature of heaven and all sort of eternal things.
With this episode, we begin our new series on the Doctors of the Church. What is a Doctor of the Church? Are all Doctors also saints? What makes a person a Doctor of the Church? All these questions, and more, will be answered, as well as some hints at what you can expect from this series. Get ready to sample the fruit of some of the greatest minds the Church has ever produced! Links To listen to our episode 4.13 on Pelagianism: https://www.catholicculture.org/commentary/413-heresiespelagianism-and-seeds-calvinism/ SIGN UP for Catholic Culture's Newsletter: https://www.catholicculture.org/newsletters/ DONATE at: http://www.catholicculture.org/donate/audio Dr. Papandrea's Homepage: http://www.jimpapandrea.com To ask questions, make comments, or interact with Dr. Papandrea, join the conversation in the Original Church Community: https://theoriginalchurch.locals.com/ Dr. Papandrea's latest book, Praying Like the Early Church: https://sophiainstitute.com/product/praying-like-the-early-church/ Theme Music: Gaudeamus (Introit for the Feast of All Saints), sung by Jeff Ostrowski. Courtesy of Corpus Christi Watershed: https://www.ccwatershed.org/
This is the third lesson in Dr. Lane G. Tipton's Reformed Academy course, Calvinism: The Plan of Salvation. This lesson covers the following topics: 0:00 Who Saves? (Naturalism vs. Supernaturalism) 2:58 Pelagianism 6:58 Socinianism 8:49 Classical Liberalism 11:35 How does God Save? (Sacerdotalism) 19:17 Protestantism Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress, download supplemental materials, and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to twenty-four additional five-hour video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedforum.org/courses/calvinism-the-plan-of-salvation/ Your donations enable us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you all across the world: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ #Calvinism #salvation #reformedtheology
what is semi-pelagianism and are many baptists semi-pelagian today in America?
St. Augustine of Hippo (part 2) - From Pope Benedict's audience: After his Baptism, Augustine decided to return to Africa with his friends, with the idea of living a community life of the monastic kind at the service of God. However, while awaiting their departure in Ostia, his mother fell ill unexpectedly and died shortly afterwards, breaking her son's heart. Having returned to his homeland at last, the convert settled in Hippo for the very purpose of founding a monastery. In this city on the African coast he was ordained a priest in 391, despite his reticence, and with a few companions began the monastic life which had long been in his mind, dividing his time between prayer, study and preaching. All he wanted was to be at the service of the truth. He did not feel he had a vocation to pastoral life but realized later that God was calling him to be a pastor among others and thus to offer people the gift of the truth. He was ordained a Bishop in Hippo four years later, in 395. Augustine continued to deepen his study of Scripture and of the texts of the Christian tradition and was an exemplary Bishop in his tireless pastoral commitment: he preached several times a week to his faithful, supported the poor and orphans, supervised the formation of the clergy and the organization of mens' and womens' monasteries. In short, the former rhetorician asserted himself as one of the most important exponents of Christianity of that time. He was very active in the government of his Diocese - with remarkable, even civil, implications - in the more than 35 years of his Episcopate, and the Bishop of Hippo actually exercised a vast influence in his guidance of the Catholic Church in Roman Africa and, more generally, in the Christianity of his time, coping with religious tendencies and tenacious, disruptive heresies such as Manichaeism, Donatism and Pelagianism, which endangered the Christian faith in the one God, rich in mercy. And Augustine entrusted himself to God every day until the very end of his life: smitten by fever, while for almost three months his Hippo was being besieged by vandal invaders, the Bishop - his friend Possidius recounts in his Vita Augustini - asked that the penitential psalms be transcribed in large characters, "and that the sheets be attached to the wall, so that while he was bedridden during his illness he could see and read them and he shed constant hot tears" (31, 2). This is how Augustine spent the last days of his life. He died on 28 August 430, when he was not yet 76. We will devote our next encounters to his work, his message and his inner experience. The post St. Augustine of Hippo, Part 2 – The Doctors of the Church: The Charism of Wisdom with Dr. Matthew Bunson – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
Our generation is presiding over one of the most precipitous declines of Christian influence in the history of the Church—but we can change that. In this sermon, Pastor Allen Jackson discusses our need for repentance, or truly turning away from our sins. He teaches about the spreading influence of paganism and false gospels in our culture, such as Pelagianism and the gospel of cheap grace. Pastor Allen reads from Matthew, Luke, and other books to emphasize upholding a biblical definition of marriage and the importance of protecting children. If we want to see change in the culture around us, we ourselves must have a change of heart. To support this ministry and help us continue to reach people all around the world, visit this link: allenjackson.com/podcastdonate
In this conversation, Kyle discusses the doctrine of infusion as a forgotten doctrine of spiritual formation. He highlights the tendency in the spiritual formation discussion to be a-theological, and emphasizes the importance of theology being accountable to the lived experience of Christians. Infusion is the idea that true virtue in the Christian life comes from God and is infused into believers through the work of the Holy Spirit. Kyle explains that infusion protects Christian formation from Pelagianism and distinguishes between acquired virtue and supernatural virtue. He also addresses misunderstandings and misconceptions about infusion.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Forgotten Doctrines of Spiritual Formation02:56 The Importance of Theology in Spiritual Formation08:12 Understanding Infusion and Distinguishing Virtue14:30 Addressing Misunderstandings of Infusion in Christian Formation Get full access to Kyle's Formation Substack at kylestrobel.substack.com/subscribe
Kyle delves into the nature and task of spiritual formation, with a focus on the dangers of Pelagianism. It explores the distinction between grace and moralism, emphasizing the importance of faith and the work of the Spirit in Christian formation. Several books mentioned in this episode were: The Grace of Christ - AugustineLiving in Union with Christ - Grant MacaskillThe Life of God in the Soul of Man - Scougal Get full access to Kyle's Formation Substack at kylestrobel.substack.com/subscribe
Kyle reflects on a special episode featuring Dallas Willard's lecture on spiritual formation and the VIM formula. He compares his approach to Willard's and discusses the dangers of self-help and Pelagianism. Kyle emphasizes the need for a theological grounding in Christ and the Spirit's work in transformation.In this episode, Kyle mentioned a book by Michael Stewart Robb called The Kingdom Among Us: The Gospel According to Dallas Willard. Get full access to Kyle's Formation Substack at kylestrobel.substack.com/subscribe
Divine Election Dr. Steven R. Cook (https://thinkingonscripture.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Divine-Election.pdf) Introduction Election is a biblical teaching that every serious student of the Bible must consider at some point. It addresses issues related to God's sovereignty and human volition, sin and salvation, justice and mercy, love and faith. Given that election touches upon the infinite and eternal nature of God, it's not surprising that certain aspects of this doctrine transcend human understanding, similar to the biblical doctrines of the Trinity and the Hypostatic Union.[1] God's revelation must be our guide. Though we reason through Scripture, our reasoning ability is limited, and we must learn to live with certain unresolvable theological tensions. According to Norman Geisler, “The mystery of the relationship between divine sovereignty and human free will has challenged the greatest Christian thinkers down through the centuries.”[2] Lewis Chafer states, “The doctrine of Election is a cardinal teaching of the Scriptures. Doubtless, it is attended with difficulties which are a burden upon all systems of theology alike.”[3] Warren Wiersbe states, “The mystery of divine sovereignty and human responsibility will never be solved in this life. Both are taught in the Bible (John 6:37). Both are true, and both are essential.”[4] Charles Ryrie adds, “No human mind will ever harmonize sovereignty and free will, but ignoring or downplaying one or the other in the interests of a supposed harmony will solve nothing.”[5] When discussing election with others, it's always best to maintain an attitude of love and grace, as this will generate more light than heat. Major Views on Election Regarding election and salvation, there are varying perspectives on the roles of divine intervention and human responsibility in the process of being saved. The major views are as follows: Strict Calvinism adheres closely to the five points of Calvinism summarized by the acronym TULIP. Total depravity means people are completely unable to save themselves or even to seek God on their own due to their sinful nature. Unconditional election refers to God's choice of certain individuals for salvation, not based on any foreseen merit or action on their part but purely on His sovereign will. Limited atonement means Christ's death was intended to save only the elect, not all of humanity. Irresistible grace means that when God calls the elect to salvation, they cannot resist His will. Perseverance of the saints means that those whom God has elected and saved will persevere in faith and will not ultimately fall away. Moderate Calvinism adheres to the basic tenets of Calvinism but with some modifications or a softer interpretation. These often hold to a form of unlimited atonement that suggests Christ's atonement is sufficient for all but effective only for the elect. They're also more open to dialogue with other theological perspectives, and tend to avoid the more deterministic implications of strict Calvinism. Calminianism blends elements of Calvinism and Arminianism, seeking a middle ground concerning God's sovereignty and human volition. Calminians tend to lean toward unlimited atonement, resistible grace, God's election based on foreknowledge of who would believe, and the belief that saints can turn to a prolonged sinful lifestyle without losing their salvation. Arminianism is a theological system that emphasizes God's conditional election based on foreknowledge. Arminians see people as corrupted by sin, but able to respond to God's call to salvation. They also adhere to unlimited atonement, resistible grace, and believe Christians are able to forfeit their salvation, which means good works are necessary to retain salvation. Catholicism teaches that salvation is open to all and involves both God's grace and human cooperation. In the Catholic view, both faith and works are essential for salvation. Faith is the foundational response to God's grace, but it must be accompanied by works of love and obedience. In Catholicism, the sacraments are seen as vital means of grace. For instance, baptism is considered necessary for salvation as it washes away original sin and incorporates a person into the body of Christ. The Eucharist, penance, and other sacraments further sustain and deepen a believer's relationship with God. Pelagianism is a theological perspective considered heretical by most Christian traditions. It emphasizes human free will and denies original sin, teaching people are born morally neutral, and each person can choose to do good or evil without the necessity of divine grace. Pelagians emphasize that salvation can be achieved through human effort and moral striving, and they see God's grace is seen as helpful but not necessary for living a righteous life or achieving salvation. The above categories are simplified presentations with detailed nuances others might seek to expand and clarify. My purpose in presenting them is to provide a basic construct of the major views. What follows is my understanding of the doctrine of election as it is taught in the Word of God. God is Sovereign The Bible reveals God is sovereign over His creation, declaring “The LORD is King forever and ever” (Psa 10:16), and “Whatever the LORD pleases, He does, in heaven and in earth, in the seas and in all deeps” (Psa 135:6), and “All the inhabitants of the earth are accounted as nothing, but He does according to His will in the host of heaven and among the inhabitants of earth; and no one can ward off His hand or say to Him, ‘What have You done?'” (Dan 4:35). God Himself declares, “My purpose will stand, and I will do all that I please” (Isa 46:10b; cf. Psa 33:11), and this because He is the “only Sovereign, the King of kings and Lord of lords” (1 Tim 6:15), Who “works all things after the counsel of His will” (Eph 1:11b). All this is true; however, the Bible also reveals God sovereignly created both angels and people with intellect and volition, and has granted them a modicum of freedom to act as free moral agents. According to McChesney, God's sovereignty “is not to be viewed in any such way as to abridge the reality of the moral freedom of God's responsible creatures or to make men anything else than the arbiters of their own eternal destinies. God has seen fit to create beings with the power of choice between good and evil. He rules over them in justice and wisdom and grace.”[6] At all times, and without external restraint, God remains in constant sovereign control, guiding His creation through history. He interferes in the affairs of mankind, and His unseen hand works behind all their activities, controlling and directing history as He wills. We know from Scripture that God possesses certain immutable attributes and that He never acts inconsistently with His nature. For example, because God is righteous, all His actions and commands are just. Because God is immutable, His moral perfections never change. Because God is eternal, He is righteous forever. Because God is omniscient, His righteous acts are always predicated on perfect knowledge. Because God is omnipotent, He is always able to execute His righteous will. And because God is love, His judgments can be merciful toward the undeserving and humble. The Bible Affirms God's Sovereignty and Human Volition Shortly after God created the heavens and the earth (Gen 1:1), He sovereignly chose to create mankind in His image (Gen 1:26) as finite analogues to Himself, endowed with intellectual and volitional capabilities. God's intention was that they would function as theocratic administrators to “rule” over His creation (Gen 1:26-28). When God made His decision to create people in His image, He willingly limited Himself to allow them the freedom to operate as responsible moral creatures and not mere automatons. This self-imposed restraint by God is not unusual, for He has restrained Himself in other ways. For example, every time God made a promise or covenant, He bound Himself to His Word such that He cannot do otherwise. Scripture reveals that “God is not a man, that He should lie, nor a son of man, that He should change His mind; has He said, and will He not do it? Or has He spoken, and will He not make it good?” (Num 23:19). This is why, even though “we are faithless, He remains faithful, for He cannot deny Himself” (2 Tim 2:13), and “it is impossible for God to lie” (Heb 6:18; cf., Tit 1:2). God has given people volition and freedom to act, and He holds them accountable for their actions. As the Sovereign of the universe, God will judge everyone fairly, for “there is no partiality with God” (Rom 2:11). Peter said, “I most certainly understand now that God is not one to show partiality, but in every nation the man who fears Him and does what is right is welcome to Him” (Acts 10:34-35). And Paul wrote, “For he who does wrong will receive the consequences of the wrong which he has done, and that without partiality” (Col 3:25). Though all mankind is fallen, being corrupted because of their sinful flesh (Rom 5:12, 6:6; 7:19-23; Gal 5:17, 19; Col 3:9), they still retain the image of God and the ability to function intellectually and volitionally (Gen 9:6; 1 Cor 11:7; Jam 3:9). This means that mankind is able, in a limited way, to understand God's general and special revelation, and to respond volitionally if they choose (Psa 19:1-2; Rom 1:18-32). Dr. Steven R. Cook [1] For example, the doctrine of the Hypostatic Union teaches that God the Son added to Himself humanity, forever uniting His divine nature with a perfect sinless human nature, becoming the God-Man (John 1:1, 14, 18; 20:28; Col 2:9; Heb 1:8). He is eternal God (Isa 9:6; John 8:56-58; 17:5), yet He was born of a woman in time and space (Isa 7:14; Luke 1:30-35; Gal 4:4). As God, He is omniscient (Psa 139:1-6), but as a boy, He grew in knowledge (Luke 2:52). As God, He created the universe (Gen 1:1; John 1:3; Col 1:15-16), but as man, He was subject to weakness (Matt 4:2; John 4:6; 19:28). God is immortal and cannot die (1 Tim 1:17; 6:16), but as a human, Jesus could die (Matt 16:21; Rom 5:8). There were times that Jesus operated from His divine nature (Mark 2:5-12; John 8:56-58; 10:30-33), and other times from His human nature (Matt 4:2; Luke 8:22-23; John 19:28). These two natures seem incompatible, yet they cohere within Jesus. [2] Norman L. Geisler, Systematic Theology, Volume Three: Sin, Salvation (Minneapolis, MN: Bethany House Publishers, 2004), 137. [3] Lewis S. Chafer, “Biblical Theism Divine Decrees” Bibliotheca Sacra, 96 (1939): 268. [4] Warren W. Wiersbe, The Bible Exposition Commentary, vol. 2 (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1996), 11. [5] Charles Caldwell Ryrie, Basic Theology: A Popular Systematic Guide to Understanding Biblical Truth (Chicago, IL: Moody Press, 1999), 359. [6] E. McChesney, “Sovereignty of God,” ed. Merrill F. Unger and R.K. Harrison, The New Unger's Bible Dictionary (Chicago: Moody Press, 1988).
Pelagius was so optimistic about human nature and the freedom of the will that he went so far as to deny the reality of original sin and the need for infant baptism. Saint Augustine corrected Pelagius and his followers, but in the heat of the debate he went a bit too far in in the opposite direction, and proposed a doctrine of election that the Church ultimately did not embrace. This episode explores, not only the problems with Pelagianism, but also the problems with its opposite, and the ways in which Saint Augustine inadvertently laid the foundation for the later heresy of Calvinism. Links To listen to Mike Aquilina's episode 38 on Augustine of Hippo (part 1): https://www.catholicculture.org/commentary/38augustine-part-1-misspent-youth-and-conversion/ To listen to Mike Aquilina's episode 39 on Augustine of Hippo (part 2): https://www.catholicculture.org/commentary/39augustine-part-2-mob-made-bishop-makes-his-mark/ To listen to Mike Aquilina's episode 40 on Augustine of Hippo (part 3): https://www.catholicculture.org/commentary/40augustine-part-3-last-days-and-end-age/ To read St. Augustine's Confessions: https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/library/fathers/view.cfm?recnum=3102&repos=8&subrepos=0&searchid=2399020 To read St. Augustine's On the Proceedings of Pelagius: https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/library/fathers/view.cfm?recnum=3308&repos=8&subrepos=0&searchid=2399018 To read St. Augustine's On the Spirit and the Letter: https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/library/fathers/view.cfm?recnum=3305&repos=8&subrepos=0&searchid=2399019 To read St. Augustine's On Grace and Free Will: https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/library/fathers/view.cfm?recnum=3302&repos=8&subrepos=0&searchid=2399021 To read St. Augustine's On the Soul and its Origin: https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/library/fathers/view.cfm?recnum=3311&repos=8&subrepos=0&searchid=2399023 To read St. Augustine's Handbook on Faith, Hope, and Love: https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/library/fathers/view.cfm?recnum=3287&repos=8&subrepos=0&searchid=2399022 For more on the controversy over Pelagianism, St. Augustine's rebuttal of it, and the Council of Orange, see the book: Reading the Church Fathers: A History of the Early Church and the Development of Doctrine: https://sophiainstitute.com/product/reading-the-church-fathers/ For more on the concept of the will of God as it relates to God's sovereignty, human free will, and the submission of the human will to the will of God, see the book: Praying Like the Early Church: Seven Insights from the Church Fathers to Help You Connect with God: https://sophiainstitute.com/product/praying-like-the-early-church/ SIGN UP for Catholic Culture's Newsletter: https://www.catholicculture.org/newsletters/ DONATE at: http://www.catholicculture.org/donate/audio To connect with Dr. James Papandrea, On YouTube - The Original Church: https://www.youtube.com/@TheOriginalChurch Join the conversation in the Original Church Community on Locals: https://theoriginalchurch.locals.com/ Dr. Papandrea's Homepage: http://www.jimpapandrea.com Theme Music: Gaudeamus (Introit for the Feast of All Saints), sung by Jeff Ostrowski. Courtesy of Corpus Christi Watershed: https://www.ccwatershed.org/
Saturday in the Octave of Easter Saint of the Day: Pope St. Celestine I; elected pope in 422; founder of the papal diplomatic service; battled heresies of Novationism, Nestorianism, and Pelagianism; believed to have sent Palladius to evangelize Ireland in 431; died in 432 A.D. Office of Readings and Morning Prayer for 4/6/24 Gospel: Mark 16:9-15
Have you ever considered the mysteries of divine choice and human destiny? Join us on a profound spiritual journey as we untangle the complex doctrines of election and predestination, delving into God's pre-creation plans and the debate over whether our salvation hinges on divine grace or human will. This episode promises to enlighten you on these deeply rooted Christian beliefs, exploring the scriptural evidence that challenges and reframes common misconceptions surrounding these topics.Venture into the historical battlegrounds of theological thought, where Augustine's rebuttals to Pelagianism and the formation of Calvinist doctrine shape our understanding of God's sovereignty. We examine how these ancient discussions continue to influence evangelicalism in America today, contrasting the global impact of Reformed theology with the resistance found within our own borders. The episode doesn't shy away from the hard questions, addressing the paradox of God's universal love and His selective election, and what this means for our personal faith journeys.Wrapping up, we contemplate the reassurance and responsibility that come with accepting the sovereignty of God in matters of salvation. As we reflect on the transformative nature of grace and the call to evangelize, we're reminded of the central tenet of Christianity—justification by faith in Christ alone. Whether you're wrestling with doubts or seeking deeper theological insight, this exploration offers a fresh perspective that will both challenge and comfort believers. Support the show
We continue working through an article written by Christopher Bounds entitled "How Are People Saved? The Major Views Of Salvation With a Focus On Wesleyan Perspectives And Their Implications" . In this episode we finish up our discussion of Semi-Pelagianism and read some quotes from a Semi-Pelagian leaning (according to Bounds) writer in the Wesleyan tradition. Then we start to cover Semi-Augustinianism, and take a deep dive into the concept of "prevenient grace", which is, according to Bounds, the key distinctive of this view. We then read from Roger Olson's book "Arminian Theology: Myths and Realities", and see what he has to say about prevenient grace. Enjoy! Link to Article here: https://www.jstor.org/stable/42909800
Is Arminianism biblical? How do each of the five points of Arminianism compare to the five points of Calvinism? What do Arminians believe? What is Arminianism, and is it biblical? Calvinism vs. Arminianism - which view is correct? What is semi-Pelagianism? What is open theism? Is sinless perfection possible in this life? This episode on YouTube
Summary: In this podcast episode, host Edmund Mitchell engages with Fr. Stephen Pullis, Director of Pastoral Formation, and a professor at Sacred Heart Major Seminary, to explore the nuances of grace in catechesis. They discuss the challenges of moving beyond traditional catechesis, emphasizing the need for lifelong discipleship. Fr. Pullis shares insights into integrating faith into daily life in a postmodern world, emphasizing both successes and mistakes.The conversation delves into the intricate nature of grace, highlighting its dual aspects—God's aid and human merit. Father Pullis stresses that grace is God's freely given life to humanity, shaping the Christian narrative. The discussion explores the transformative power of grace, emphasizing Jesus as the primary actor in breaking into our lives.The hosts express concerns about potential pitfalls, and Fr. Pullis provides tips on explaining grace to those new to the faith. They discuss the challenges of living out church teachings and address the heresy of Pelagianism and modern challenges like Neo-Pelagianism.The podcast concludes with practical advice for catechists, emphasizing a balanced approach between God's initiative and human cooperation. Fr. Pullis encourages the use of saints as examples for translating beliefs into practical everyday life. The episode closes with a mention of Sacred Heart Major Seminary's online courses and an invitation for engagement on Real+True's YouTube channel.This episode is sponsored by the National Catholic Educational Association 2024 Convention. To learn more visit: https://ncea.org/NCEA2024 An OSV Podcasts partner. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.
Ever pondered the ripple effects of Adam's sin or questioned how it could possibly influence your life today? Prepare for a theological odyssey that examines the topic of sin, individual accountability, and the deep-seated implications of The Federal Headship of Adam—the doctrine that through Adam's transgression, all of humanity has inherited a sin nature. In our latest episode, we dissect this complex Biblical reasoning and Pelagianism, a view historically rejected by the church for its assertion that humans are born with a clean moral slate. Join us for a thought-provoking session that explain this important Christian doctrine. You can listen to the full session here - https://www.buzzsprout.com/1892337/13110350 Support the show
Today Dr Will Ryan & Dr. Matt launch a series examining the Doctrine of Original Sin. If you've followed us long enough you've probably seen there are 2 theologies we tend to jab at quite a bit: Dispensationalism, Calvinism/Reformed Theology, So we basically have issues with doctrines that promote fear and a distortion of God's Character. In this series we'll be looking at how Original Sin is not Biblical or Ancient. The first 400 years of the Church did not believe this There is zero evidence that Judaism ever believed this. Messianic Jews do not believe this. The Eastern Orthodox church along with some Protestant denominations never adopted this view. As we'll see in this intro, Augustine was the inventor of this doctrine in the 5th century and much of it was due to his importation of his pagan background into Christianity. Defining original sin We do not deny that there was AN ORIGINAL SIN. What we will be referring to as “Original Sin” is the doctrine of Original Sin which teaches that because of Adam and Eve's sin we are all born guilty before God and that we inherit their guilt from birth. Sometimes we may refer to this as Original Guilt. This is also called Augustinian Anthropology or Augustinian Original Sin Original Sin is the building block for Total Depravity or Total Inability of Calvinism's TUPLIP which is about the nature of man in that they are so totally depraved that they cannot even seek after God. Augustine and Original Sin The doctrine came into the church through Augustine of Hippo (396-440 CE) and the doctrine was originally called Concupiscence. “Concupiscence” , according to Augustine, relates to Adam's sin being transferred through sexual reproduction. It's root definition is a base sexual desire. We get our word concubine from this. He believe that though this all men are born with their will, body, and mind corrupt and this is transmitted sexually. They inherited the sin through the sexual act leading to birth. Augustine could only read Latin. He tried to learn Greek but despised it due to his teacher who was very hard on him and so never learned it. He also could not read Hebrew. Augustine came to original sin by reading Romans 5:12 in a bad Latin translation. Augustine and Pelagianism Often the label thrown at those who disagree with Original Sin or who hold to Freedom of the Will is “Pelagian”. Augustine developed 14 points of accusation against Pelagius. But you can look Pelagius' writings and they completely refute the accusations. The 14 Points of Pelagianism: 1. Adam was created mortal & would die whether he sinned or not 2. Adam's sin harmed only Adam, not mankind 3. The law leads to heaven in the same way as the Gospel 4. Newborn infants are in the exact same state as Adam before his sin 5. The whole human race doesn't die through Adam & live through Christ 6. Even unbaptized infants possess eternal life 7. The wealthy must renounce their possessions or they will not see the Kingdom of Heaven 8. God's grace & help are not given for individual actions, but consist in free will, the law & teaching. 9. God‘s grace is given in accord with our merits & is located in the human will 10. Only those who are without sin can be called children of God 11. Forgetfulness & ignorance are not sinful since they're not done willingly 12. A choice is not free if it needs God's help 13. Our victory is not the result of God's help, but free will 14. The soul can be as sinless as God. “Pelagianism” based on Augustine's 14 slanderous claims is not a real thing, but rather a strawman, a distortion, defamation and slander of the beliefs of a truly Orthodox Christian in order to change orthodoxy in the church. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/expedition44/support
This week the Podcast shifts towards the west as we look at St. John Cassian. St. John had immense influence on western monasticism through St. Benedict's Rule. But also has been maligned (wrongly) as one of the sources of that dubious theology (dubious in so many ways), Semipelagianism.
This week the Podcast shifts towards the west as we look at St. John Cassian. St. John had immense influence on western monasticism through St. Benedict's Rule. But also has been maligned (wrongly) as one of the sources of that dubious theology (dubious in so many ways), Semipelagianism.
This week the Podcast shifts towards the west as we look at St. John Cassian. St. John had immense influence on western monasticism through St. Benedict's Rule. But also has been maligned (wrongly) as one of the sources of that dubious theology (dubious in so many ways), Semipelagianism.
Adult Bible Class discussion of different heresies. This week: Pelagianism
Full Text of ReadingsMemorial of Saint Leo the Great, Pope and Doctor of the Church Lectionary: 489The Saint of the day is Saint Leo the GreatSaint Leo the Great's Story With apparent strong conviction of the importance of the Bishop of Rome in the Church, and of the Church as the ongoing sign of Christ's presence in the world, Leo the Great displayed endless dedication as pope. Elected in 440, he worked tirelessly as “Peter's successor,” guiding his fellow bishops as “equals in the episcopacy and infirmities.” Leo is known as one of the best administrative popes of the ancient Church. His work branched into four main areas, indicative of his notion of the pope's total responsibility for the flock of Christ. He worked at length to control the heresies of Pelagianism—overemphasizing human freedom—Manichaeism—seeing everything material as evil—and others, placing demands on their followers so as to secure true Christian beliefs. A second major area of his concern was doctrinal controversy in the Church in the East, to which he responded with a classic letter setting down the Church's teaching on the two natures of Christ. With strong faith, he also led the defense of Rome against barbarian attack, taking the role of peacemaker. In these three areas, Leo's work has been highly regarded. His growth to sainthood has its basis in the spiritual depth with which he approached the pastoral care of his people, which was the fourth focus of his work. He is known for his spiritually profound sermons. An instrument of the call to holiness, well-versed in Scripture and ecclesiastical awareness, Leo had the ability to reach the everyday needs and interests of his people. One of his sermons is used in the Office of Readings on Christmas. It is said of Leo that his true significance rests in his doctrinal insistence on the mysteries of Christ and the Church and in the supernatural charisms of the spiritual life given to humanity in Christ and in his Body, the Church. Thus Leo held firmly that everything he did and said as pope for the administration of the Church represented Christ, the head of the Mystical Body, and Saint Peter, in whose place Leo acted. Reflection At a time when there is widespread criticism of Church structures, we also hear criticism that bishops and priests—indeed, all of us—are too preoccupied with administration of temporal matters. Pope Leo is an example of a great administrator who used his talents in areas where spirit and structure are inseparably combined: doctrine, peace, and pastoral care. He avoided an “angelism” that tries to live without the body, as well as the “practicality” that deals only in externals. Click here for quotes from Catholic saints! Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media
If our culture is like water, then the concept of grace is its oil. We like to work hard and believe our efforts should merit reward. Until, of course, we come face-to-face with our inability to truly “help ourselves.” In this episode of White Horse Inn, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Walter Strickland break down the history of sola gratia, or “by grace alone,” confronting the continued influence of Pelagianism today and how grace sets us free.
Dr. Jon Bruss of Concordia Theological Seminary-Fort Wayne, IN Concordia Theological Seminary-Fort Wayne, IN The post 2081. Pelagianism, Semi-Pelagianism and Double Predestination – Dr. Jon Bruss, 7/27/23 first appeared on Issues, Etc..
When a Protestant challenges you on whether someone is saved by faith and works, do you feel overwhelmed and not sure how to answer? Patrick Madrid talks to a caller named John from New Jersey. John asks about the phrase "faith alone" in the New Testament and its connection to the Protestant teaching on salvation. Patrick explains that the phrase "faith alone" appears only once in the Bible, in James 2:24, which states, "You see that a man is justified by works and not by faith alone." Patrick then delves into the context of this verse, starting from James 2:14, where it is emphasized that faith without works is dead. He highlights the rhetorical question of whether faith alone can save someone, and James provides examples of Abraham and Rahab to demonstrate that genuine faith is manifested through works. Patrick also refutes the idea that James is talking about justification in the eyes of men, pointing out that Abraham's actions were not witnessed by anyone, showing that it refers to God's justification. He goes on to stress that Catholics believe in salvation by God's grace, as stated in Ephesians 2:8-9, where it is clarified that salvation is a gift from God and not based on our own works. However, Patrick emphasizes the Catholic teaching that good works are essential, as they are the result of God's grace working in believers and demonstrate true faith. He cautions against Pelagianism, the belief that one can earn salvation through works alone, and he highlights the importance of both faith and works in the process of salvation. Finally, as a way for you to feel extra confident in your apologetics, Patrick recommends a book on grace and justification for Protestants written by Steve Wood, a former member of Calvary Chapel, as a resource for those interested in understanding the biblical perspective on this topic.