The Highway Forums General Discussion Theology Discussion Forum Arminian Atonement of John Piper

Renat,

Here we are going to have to disagree, most assuredly. I do not hold to "eternal justification". When I was studying at the PR (Protestant Reformed) seminary, this was the view they tried to teach. And, would it be correct to understand your view as being just that... "eternal justification"?

Be that as it may, I hold to the historic confessional view that one is not justified until faith embraces Christ. One does not simply come to a conscious knowledge of justification, but is actually declared at that moment justified. Barth also embraced a form of this existential justification where the "elect-elect" are those who come to know of their election in this life vs. the "elect-reject" who although elect never come to that knowledge. I am NOT equating Barth's views on election with yours or that of "eternal justification" but rather showing a similarity between the two in regard to one becoming consciously aware of what was eternally accomplished vs. actually taking place in time.

There is a distinct difference, albeit inseparable connection, between redemption accomplished and redemption applied (in time). Without faith taking hold of Christ there is no and cannot be any justification. That the justification of the elect is infallibly secured in the life, death and resurrection of Christ is true. But the actual declaration of that justification and imputation of Christ's righteousness is not a reality until by regeneration faith is exercised.