SEMESTER 3
233 – An Introduction to Soteriology 3
BIBLE INSTITUTE OF CORRESPONDENCE
COURSE: SOTERIOLOGY III LESSON # 33
AN INTRODUCTION TO SOTERIOLOGY 3
I. A REVIEW OF THE ROAD BEHIND US
In the first 32 lectures and outlines on this subject, we have laid a foundation and, I trust, erected a cornerstone.
1. We learned what man was as a created being.
2. We learned what he was as a fallen creature:
i. as concerning his guilt,
ii. as concerning his nature,
iii. as concerning his ability,
iv. as concerning his responsibility.
3. We spent considerable time in dealing with his volition, or free agency.
4. I gave you an overview of the two basic philosophies of soteriology, i.e. (1) Calvinism (only a theological term), (2) Arminianism (only a theological term).
5. I tried to show how these two systems are different treatments of the same issues (review T.U.L.I.P.).
6. I spent some time then on the doctrine of total depravity.
7. I then spent a huge amount of time on the doctrine of sovereign election.
II. THE FORMAT FOR STUDY
1. For this year, it will continue in the direction of the T.U.L.I.P. pattern.
2. The pattern as such, neither denies nor affirms any of the doctrines.
3. They are, however, clear divisions of soteriological discussion about which everyone believes something.
4. In fact, the origin of the so-called “five points” was not pro but con.
III. THE ROAD AHEAD OF US
1. We will move into the doctrine of atonement.
i. This doctrine is the focus of all soteriology.
ii. It is one with a great diversity of theory.
iii. It is one of a supra-logical nature.
iv. It is a doctrine that demands a posture of humility.
III: A little knowledge puffeth up.
2. We will then move on to the doctrine of calling.
i. This doctrine is often called irresistible grace.
ii. This was intended as the view from God-ward.
iii. Viewed from man-ward, it is rightly effectual calling.
iv. The objections to this doctrine are ironic, in that everywhere else Christendom admires God’s “irresistibility.”
3. We will then move to the doctrine of preservation and perseverance.
i. These are in reality the cause and effect of the same thing.
ii. This is an area greatly wanting in balance as far as teaching is concerned.
Conclusion: This may, at first, seem a small scope of subject matter, but in essence, all soteriological theory ever discussed is covered by these headings.