The Relevance of Buchanan’s Justification: Part Two

Historical

Extremely illuminating is Buchanan’s treatment of the history of the doctrine of justification, specifically the corruption of the doctrine by Catholicism, Socinianism, Neo-nominianism, and other movements. Particularly since much of modern-day liberalism espouses a Socinianism Revivus, particularly on the person of Christ and the nature of his atonement, it is not surprising that the Socinian view of justification would prevail in our current setting. Buchanan defines the Socinian view of justification as “sinners obtain[ing] pardon and acceptance with God through His mere mercy, on the ground of their own repentance and reformation” (162). It is notable that the Socinians would maintain speech such as “justification by faith,” “by grace,” etc., while in the meantime redefining each to include man’s personal repentance and reformation.

Not only does Buchanan offer surveys of these views, but arguments against them as well. Therein lies a considerable portion of his current-day value. Since our age suffers from considerable historical amnesia, including and particularly in the area of theology, Buchanan’s treatment of the history of theological controversy is refreshing and illuminating.