The Highway Forums General Discussion Theology Discussion Forum Lordship Salvation

In the past I have had no qualms in affirming the Lordship Salvation position. Nowadays I don't know as I must add some cavaets. And, it is nor from the antinomians. I expect a disagreement from them. But not it comes from those who want to place the idea of actually having the ability to obey. Not desiring or striving to obey, but actualy obeying.

Has there been at one time a clear understanding of what is meant by Lordship salvation in the non-antinominian camp, or has the concept always had some ambiguity to it.

To me, it only has the idea of a Christian making God as the boss in our lives, not just as our Savior. Of course, it is our desire to make Him boss. That is what God commands of us, though we will fail miserable in our attempts.

John,

Aside from the fact that there will most always be exceptions to the "rule", from my reading, "Lordship salvation", albeit never specifically mentioned, was inherent in Calvinistic groups from the simple fact that Calvinism's primary foundation is the belief in the Sovereignty of God. See these articles:

1) The Fundamental Principle of Calvinism, by Henry Meeter
2) The Practical Implications of Calvinism, by Albert N. Martin

Thus, in Reformed soteriology (doctrine of salvation), when one is regenerated and given a new disposition toward God, the sinner by virtue of that new nature recognizes and confesses that God is worthy of worship and obedience, aka: Lordship for He is the supreme Creator and Ruler of all things. It is before Him that all men must bow in humble submission. The "LORD" Jesus Christ, just in this phrase is also a proclamation that the incarnate Son of God is Jehovah God and likewise worthy of worship and total obedience. Therefore, to believe in Christ with a genuine saving faith, is to not only rely upon Him for the remission of sins and to receive His imputed righteousness but also to follow His teachings as the Supreme Lawgiver, aka: LORD. In short, in Calvinism, "Lordship" salvation is a given.

In His grace,