Synergism

Definition

Synergism is the theological concept that emphasizes the cooperative relationship between divine grace and human free will in the process of salvation. It suggests that while God's grace is essential for redemption, human beings also play a role by actively responding to that grace, which leads to a collaborative effort in achieving salvation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Synergism is often contrasted with monergism, which asserts that salvation is entirely the work of God without any human contribution.
2. The concept underscores the belief that individuals must respond positively to God's grace for it to be effective in their lives.
3. In synergism, both faith and works are seen as important components of salvation, requiring active participation from believers.
4. Different Christian denominations interpret synergism in varying ways, leading to diverse theological positions on the nature of salvation.
5. Synergism promotes the idea that human cooperation with divine grace fosters spiritual growth and transformation.

Review Questions

• How does synergism illustrate the relationship between divine grace and human free will in the context of salvation?
  • Synergism illustrates that both divine grace and human free will are essential in the salvation process. It posits that while God's grace initiates the possibility of redemption, individuals must respond to that grace through their own choices and actions. This interplay highlights a partnership between divine influence and human agency, underscoring the belief that salvation is not a one-sided affair but a collaborative effort.
• Discuss how synergism differs from monergism and what implications this has for understanding salvation in Christian theology.
  • Synergism differs from monergism in that it emphasizes human cooperation with divine grace, while monergism asserts that salvation is entirely God's work without any human contribution. This difference shapes theological discussions about accountability, faith, and works. In synergistic views, believers are encouraged to actively engage with their faith and make choices that align with God's will, while monergists emphasize reliance solely on God's initiative for salvation.
• Evaluate how the doctrine of synergism influences contemporary Christian practice and beliefs about personal responsibility in faith.
  • The doctrine of synergism influences contemporary Christian practice by promoting an understanding of personal responsibility within the faith journey. Believers who embrace this view often engage actively in spiritual disciplines such as prayer, worship, and service, seeing these actions as necessary responses to God's grace. This encourages a dynamic faith where individuals feel empowered to participate in their salvation process while also cultivating a deeper relationship with God through intentional choices.

Related terms

Grace: The unmerited favor and love of God towards humanity, often understood as a fundamental aspect of salvation in Christian theology.

Free Will: The ability of humans to make choices and decisions independently, often discussed in relation to the acceptance or rejection of divine grace.

Predestination: The doctrine that God has eternally chosen those whom he intends to save, highlighting a contrasting view to synergism by emphasizing God's sole initiative in salvation.