[redgolum]

The Church, both East and West, has maintained that salvation is neither accomplished by man's free will (Pelagianism), nor initiated by it (semi-Pelagianism). The Church steadfastly taught that man can do nothing without Grace, and that it is God who initiates and carries man's salvation.

My Lutheran Pastor said the same thing in my confirmation classes years ago.

[kosta50]

kosta: The Church, both East and West, has maintained that salvation is neither accomplished by man's free will (Pelagianism), nor initiated by it (semi-Pelagianism). The Church steadfastly taught that man can do nothing without Grace, and that it is God who initiates and carries [out] man's salvation.

redgolum: My Lutheran Pastor said the same thing in my confirmation classes years ago.

I am sure he did. The other half of the Church teaching, however, says that man synergistically cooperates with God, like a patient with a doctor, if one is to be saved.

In other words, God does not force himself on anyone (i.e. forced love = no love). Grace, being love, is not irresistible. However, the Protestants claim otherwise.

Therefore, the Church teaches that the essential elements of salvation are Grace first, and free will second. God offers, man accepts; God leads, man follows—freely.