[annalex]

All the ancient liturgical churches (Catholic, Orthodox, etc.) teach that salvation is earned by observing the "new law."

No, salvation is not earned; the elect will be saved through the merits of Christ, with Whom they cooperate in obedience.

You are correct though that substitutionary atonement is only one way to explain the Paschal Mystery. Older theologies exist, to wit, the Ransom view that teaches how Christ redeemed men from their slavery to Satan, and the pedagogical atonement view that teaches that Jesus gave men an example of obedience and love who the elect follow.

Substitutionary atonement is the most recent of the three, and the only one adopted by the Protestant communities of faith. The Catholic Church holds all three acceptable. The Orthodox Church strongly prefers the Ransom view.

The idea that men can earn their salvation on their own merit ouitside of the saving grace of Christ is heretical. We are saved because Christ loves us and we love Him back. Obedience is secondary to that love.

[Zionist Conspirator]

Thank you for your contribution to this thread.

[gogogodzilla]

"We are saved because Christ loves us and we love Him back. Obedience is secondary to that love."

Barney says, "I luv you... you luv me..."

:-P

[onedoug]

“If I knew God I’d be Him.”