Antecedents and meaning of the modern evangelical conception of grace

Abstract

This thesis proposes to bring together under a single cover material which is found at present in many separate volumes. First, beginning with primitive religion, it assays to trace the antecedent development of the conception of grace down to the present century, endeavouring to emphaslze coherence rather than divergence, and positive assertion rather than negative teaching. Second, it attempts to elucidate the meaning of what it captions (rather boldly perhaps), The Modern Evangelical Conception of Grace.

In the first half of the thesis our method is historical and exegetical, as befits the subject matter. We have tried to permit the discovered facts to dictate the form of construction, and have sought to write with accuracy of knowledge, clarity of exposition and smoothness of expression. As far as possible we have used primary works as source material, and when secondary authors were relied upon we have consistently sought verification from more than one authority.

The second half of our work is organized around the central chapter entitled, The Nature of Grace. Subsequent chapters develop the conception therein set forth, with reference to the chief problems which emerge in the historical discussion, and with frequent .allusion to other conceptions of grace, particularly that of the Roman Catholic Church. We have ventured, to include a chapter on Grace and Society, being convinced that our conception must acquit itself in Ethics as well as in Doctrine. Our further division of the material and plan of development can be ascertained by reference to the table of Contents , and therefore is not elaborated here.