Short Reflection Essay
Maggie L. Jones
THEO 202: Theology Survey II (D06)
August 8, 2024
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The doctrine of salvation is an essential concept as it provides the basis for the Son of
God came to die for the world’s sins. It sheds light on what this sin is– human depravity– and
provides the groundwork for humanity’s purpose after redemption through Christ. Currently, in
theologian practice, there are five concepts of salvation: libertarian, existential, secular,
contemporary Roman Catholic, and evangelical theologies. These theologies offer various
perspectives on salvation, including the emphasis on free will, traditional beliefs, and focus on
faith.
In Libertarian theology, salvation is seen as a way to be freed from oppression. This
theology wants to eradicate powerful classes as a way for all people to remain equal. The
Libertarian approach to salvation emphasizes the necessity of social injustices and finding the
root of inequality. Secular theology similarly puts its “trust in the visible, in the here and now,
and in explanations that do not assume any transcendent or supersensible entities” and seeks to
save themselves and make all mankind equal1. Existential theology explores the nature of human
existence, focusing on the divine. This theology strives to create a view of autonomy, therefore,
being able to save oneself. The Bible denies this view, though, saying that salvation is a gift from
God, not a work anyone can do (Eph. 2:9)2. The fourth view of salvation, contemporary Roman
Catholic theology, addresses the social injustices and human rights of the other theologies, but
leans towards a traditional view. Much of the historical evidence in this theology says the church
was the channel through which God poured grace upon people. Contemporary Roman Catholic
theology has begun to admit that others may receive grace apart from those directly tied to the
church. However, they would have to partake in the sacraments.
2 NKJV Journal the Word Bible (Nashville, Tennessee: Thomas Nelson, 1982).
1 Millard J. Erickson and L. Arnold Hustad, Introducing Christian Doctrine (Grand Rapids,
Michigan: Baker Academic, 2015), 335-336.
2
The Evangelical theology of salvation, with its emphasis on the importance of faith, is not
exclusive to a particular group. It underscores the universal need for salvation, as Paul wrote, “If
you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him
from the dead, you will be saved” (Rom. 10:9)3. Under this theory, sin is recognized universally
as the primary motive for salvation. Jesus Christ alone, the sinless Son of God, came to earth to
redeem all who believe in His name, regardless of their social status or religious affiliation. This
theology does not hinge on human good works or self-achievement but on the redemptive work
of Christ. Evangelical theology highlights the universal need for salvation, not just those within
the church or in powerful classes. Through sanctification, justification, and glorification,
humankind can come to the Father to achieve their chief end: to “glorify God and to enjoy Him
forever”4.
While all of the concepts of salvation offer specific perspectives of great value,
Evangelical theology stands out as the best view. This theology focuses on the importance of
faith in salvation and salvation as a gift from God, not because of good works. There is a
universal need for salvation and the redemptive work of Jesus Christ. Through sanctification,
justification, and glorification, Evangelical theology provides a clear path for humankind to find
peace in the Father. As someone entering into a degree and career in Christian ministry, it will be
crucial to understand how to lead someone to correct theology and how to receive salvation in
Christ. People all have different worldviews, dependent upon their walks of life. Knowing how
to meet people where they are and understanding their concerns and preconceived notions will be
critical in my field of study and personal life.
4 “The Westminster Shorter Catechism;,” Shorter Catechism, 1648, accessed August 8, 2024,
https://prts.edu/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Shorter_Catechism.pdf.
3 NKJV Journal the Word Bible (Nashville, Tennessee: Thomas Nelson, 1982).
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Bibliography
Erickson, Millard J., and L. Arnold Hustad. Introducing Christian Doctrine. Grand Rapids,
Michigan: Baker Academic, 2015.
NKJV Journal the Word Bible. Nashville, Tennessee: Thomas Nelson, 1982.
“The Westminster Shorter Catechism;” Shorter Catechism. General Assembly of the Church of
Scotland, 1648. Last modified 1648. Accessed August 8, 2024.
https://prts.edu/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Shorter_Catechism.pdf.
