semipelagian

Semipelagianism is a historical Christian theological position that emerged in the 5th century, named after Pelagius, a British monk who taught that humans are born with a natural inclination towards good and that original sin is not a total corruption of human nature. This view contrasts with the traditional Christian doctrine of total depravity, which holds that humans are entirely corrupted by sin from the moment of conception.

Pelagius argued that humans have the capacity to choose good or evil, and that through their own efforts, they can overcome sin and achieve salvation. This position was seen as a challenge to the authority of the Church and the teachings of the early Church Fathers, who emphasized the necessity of divine grace for salvation.

The Council of Ephesus in 431 CE condemned Pelagius and his followers, leading to the development of the doctrine of semi-Pelagianism. Semi-Pelagianism, as taught by figures like John Cassian, held that humans have a natural inclination towards good but still require divine grace to overcome sin. This view was also condemned by the Church, leading to the development of the doctrine of original sin as it is understood today.

Semipelagianism is significant in the history of Christian theology as it represents a challenge to the traditional understanding of human nature and the role of grace in salvation. Despite its eventual condemnation, the ideas of semipelagianism continue to influence theological debates and discussions about human nature and salvation.