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Major Doctrinal Controversies in the Christian Church

IV: The Pelagian Controversy

Position Major Proponents Summary
Pelagianism Pelagius / Julian of Eclanum Coelestius Man is born essentially good and capable of doing what is necessary for salvation.
Augustinianism Augustine of Hippo Man is dead in sin; salvation is totally by the grace of God, which is given only to the elect.
Semi-Pelagianism John Cassian The grace of God and the will of man work together in salvation, in which man must take the initiative.
Semi-Augustinianism Caesarius of Arles The grace of God comes to all, enable a person to choose and perform what is necessary for salvation.