Salvation by grace through faith; Wesleyan-Arminian soteriology
The Salvation Army affirms that salvation is by grace alone, received through faith in Jesus Christ, following Wesleyan-Arminian theological tradition. The Handbook of Doctrine teaches that God's grace is universally offered and that individuals must respond in faith for salvation to be applied. Salvation encompasses both justification (God's verdict of acquittal) and sanctification (the gradual transformation into holiness).
This Arminian framework rejects the Calvinist notion that salvation is predestined or limited to the elect, instead affirming that God offers saving grace to all people and that human choice in responding to grace is significant. The Salvation Army's entire mission—its extensive outreach and emphasis on meeting practical human needs—flows from this belief that salvation is available to all and that the Holy Spirit's work can transform any life.
Key Distinctions
- Justification means:
- faith alone (sola fide); Wesleyan entire sanctification available
- Election type:
- Wesleyan-Arminian; prevenient grace; universal atonement; free will
- Baptismal regeneration:
- no water baptism practiced — inward transformation by the Spirit
- Eternal security:
- can fall from grace — continued faith and holiness required
Scripture References
Sources
- Salvation Army Handbook of Doctrine
- The Salvation Army, Doctrine (official publication)
- Salvation Army Mission Statement