The following is an excerpt from R.C. Sproul's book, Willing to Believe
The classic issue between Augustinian theology and all forms of
semi-Pelagianism focuses on one aspect of the order of salvation (ordo
salutis):
What is the relationship between regeneration and faith? Is
regeneration a monergistic or synergistic work? Must a person first
exercise faith in order to be born again? Or must rebirth occur before a
person is able to exercise faith? Another way to state the question is
this: Is the grace of regeneration operative or cooperative?
Monergistic regeneration means that regeneration is accomplished
by a single actor, God. It means literally a “one-working.” Synergism,
on the other hand, refers to a work that involves the action of two or
more parties. It is a co-working. All forms of semi-Pelagianism assert
some sort of synergism in the work of regeneration. Usually God’s
assisting grace is seen as a necessary ingredient, but it is dependent
on human cooperation for its efficacy.
The Reformers taught not only that regeneration does precede
faith but also that it must precede faith. Because of the moral bondage
of the unregenerate sinner, he cannot have faith until he is changed
internally by the operative, monergistic work of the Holy Spirit. Faith
is regeneration’s fruit, not its cause.
According to semi-Pelagianism regeneration is wrought by God, but
only in those who have first responded in faith to him. Faith is seen
not as the fruit of regeneration, but as an act of the will cooperating
with God’s offer of grace.
Evangelicals are so called because of their commitment to the
biblical and historical doctrine of justification by faith alone.
Because the Reformers saw sola fide as central and essential to the
biblical gospel, the term evangelical was applied to them. Modern
evangelicals in great numbers embrace the sola fide of the Reformation,
but have jettisoned the sola gratia that undergirded it. Packer and
Johnston assert: Continue at R. C. Sproul
