The Highway Forums General Discussion Theology Discussion Forum Romans 6, Freed from sin?

Tom,

1. Historically, the difference has been in regard to "infused" righteousness (RCC) vs. "imputed" righteousness (Protestant). I have not heard the term "imparted" righteousness before.

2. I think that the definition of "Total Depravity" is where this idea has arisen, not only with the RCCs but also among Protestants. Add to that an over reaction to any idea that man contributes anything to salvation and you can get the notion that regenerate man is still totally depraved.

3. If you take the biblical and classic Reformed definition of the doctrine of Total Depravity then it is impossible that a regenerate man can still be totally depraved. As I have argued elsewhere, e.g., HERE and HERE, a topic of which you were involved, IF a person is totally depraved, i.e., their entire being is dominated by a sin nature thus rendering them totally unable to even desire to do good, never mind to be saved by Christ, etc., then repentance, faith and sanctification would be impossible. It is "out of the heart" that man sins and it is "out of the heart" that man does good works after the "tree" is made good.

Unlike the RCC doctrine of "infused" or "imparted" righteousness, the good works of the regenerate man are still imperfect and thus they cannot be construed as 'holy' or 'righteous', nor do they in any way, shape or form contribute to one's salvation. But neither can they be the fruit of a totally depraved man for otherwise the person wouldn't even desire to be in conformity to the law; to love God with all his mind, heart, strength and soul nor love his neighbor as himself. Lastly, such a view denies any actual regeneration of the Holy Spirit. It would be similar to Arminianism/semi-Pelagianism denying the totality of the noetic effects of the Fall, i.e., attributing some remaining ability to seek after God and to do good, only in opposite to those who want to maintain that a regenerate man is still totally depraved. Remember, the RCC contention against the Reformers was that Sola Fide led to gross antinomianism (let us sin that grace may abound). But the Reformers held to no such notion and responded with, "Salvation (justification) is by grace through faith alone, but not by a faith that is alone." There is a radical change of nature in a Christian that seeks after God and all that is holy, righteous and good. This is not the essence of one who is Totally Depraved.

Yes, there is a remnant of sin (old man, sin nature, body of sin) that remains in a true Christian for the entire time here on earth. But this remaining sin nature no longer dominates the mind, affections or will of one who has been regenerated. The Christian is 'dead to sin' and no longer a bondservant of it. Yet, all his good works are imperfect and thus there is nothing to boast about in them... yet they ARE "good works" nevertheless. A totally depraved sinner cannot do "good works" of any kind. In fact, a sinner naturally hates anything that is good by nature.