Pelagianism & Semi-Pelagianism
Controversy over original sin, autonomous free will, and the necessity of grace
Pelagius, a British ascetic monk, taught that Adam's sin injured only himself and set a bad example, that infants are born in Adam's pre-fall state of innocence, and that human free will possesses the natural capability to fulfill God's commandments without the inner supernatural aid of grace. Semi-Pelagianism (modified by Cassian) conceded original sin but maintained that the initial step of faith (initium fidei) originates from human free will.
Historical Context & Significance
Augustine of Hippo waged a relentless theological campaign against Pelagius, prompting synodal condemnations at Carthage (418 AD) and the ecumenical Council of Ephesus (431 AD), with the final Western settlement reached at Orange (529 AD) upholding sovereign prevenient grace.
Genealogical Lineage & Splits
This movement or council is an early root foundation with no preceding parent split in the dataset.
Theological & Hermeneutical Coordinates
Primary Scripture Proof-Texts
Key biblical passages central to this tradition's exegesis and historical debates.
Connected Theological Perspectives & Debates
Universal Christian confession that God Almighty is the sole Creator of all things visible and invisible out of nothing (*creatio ex nihilo*).
Universal confession that Jesus Christ died on the cross for our sins and was raised for our justification according to the Scriptures.
Universal acknowledgment that all accountable human beings sin and fall short of the glory of God and need redemption through Jesus Christ.