The Scripture Way of Salvation

Solution Preview

Before starting this discussion with you I would like to advance certain issues. Being a biblical scholar, I have to give privilege to the Bible before considering any other theological interpretation. Consequently, my reviews will be based on what the Bible states and not on any particular theology. Secondly it is quite evident that Wesley's view is mostly based on personal experience rather than theoretical or academic speculation to the extent that he was called the founder of "theology of experience" (Cf. R. Del Colle, The rediscovery of John Wesley, 1935, 347). As a result, his sermon was basically, if not totally, developed from a subjective point of view. His expressions and formulations show that. Moreover, his conceptions also betray the belief of his time, both religiously and culturally. Having said this, I will precede with my reflection without failing to point out that the weak aspects of his teachings were somehow revisited by his disciples.
John Wesley started his preaching by pointing out how complex and intricate and hard religion could seem to some people while, in reality, it is very simple. He tried clarifying himself by setting out some points in support of his ideas: Salvation which the end; faith which is the means; and the Bible. From the points he stated we could frame out three critical questions, which he, himself asked:
1) What is salvation?
2) What is faith through which we obtain salvation?
3) How are we justified and sanctified by faith?

1. Wesley rightly pointed out the salvation is something we already experience in this present life and something about afterlife only. He ventured into the explanation of the salvation that Paul meant in Ephesians 2:8. That salvation he said consisted in justification and sanctification. For him, the immediate effects of justification are peace and joy and at the same time we are justified sanctification starts. He goes on to say that though we are relieved of sin, sin is still in us because it was not put to death. So we have to strive and be good as the sanctification works in us until reaches its fullness called by him" entire sanctification" (I: 9).
You know of course that scholars are not in accord in terms of who actually wrote the letter to the Ephesians. I personally accept it to be written by Paul and as such should be read within the Pauline theological point of view.

2. Under ...