Doc. of Faith (Potts) n. 39

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39. But in order that the character of this Faith may be seen more clearly, I will adduce in their order the various things which it maintains. The Faith of the present day maintains that:

i. God the Father and God the Son are two; and both are from eternity. ii. God the Son came into the world by the will of the Father to make satisfaction for mankind, who otherwise would have perished in eternal death by the Divine justice, which they also call avenging justice. iii. The Son made satisfaction by fulfilling the law, and by the passion of the cross. iv. The Father was moved to compassion by these deeds of the Son. v. The Son's merit is imputed to those who believe this. vi. This imputation takes place in an instant; and therefore it may take place, if not before, in life's last moments. vii. There is some measure of temptation, and deliverance thereupon through this belief. viii. Those possessing this experience, in especial have trust and confidence. ix. In especial they have justification, the Father's full grace for the sake of the Son, the remission of all their sins, and thereby salvation. x. The more learned maintain that in such there is an endeavor [conatus] toward good, which works in secret, and does not manifestly move the will. Others maintain a manifest working. Both classes hold that it is by the Holy Spirit. xi. Of those who confirm themselves in the belief that no one can of himself do good that is really good and that is not tainted with self-merit, and that they are not under the yoke of the law, very many omit to do what is good, giving no thought to the evil and the good of life, saying to themselves that a good work does not save, and neither does an evil one condemn, because faith alone effects all things. xii. All maintain that the understanding must be kept in subjection to faith, calling that a matter of faith which is not understood.


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