timfost
Puritan Board Senior
The WLC 34-35 uses the word "administered" in relation to the obligations set forth in the covenant of grace under various dispensations (OT and NT). Reformed theology is careful to not make salvation subservient to the administration of sacraments (e.g. circumcision/baptism) (Rom. 4:9-12). In contrast, Aquinas says:
Questions:
1. Is the difference between Reformed and Catholic theology in regards to the relationship between grace and the sacraments summarized in the words "administration" (Reformed) and "means" (Catholic)?
2. Does Reformed theology ever use the word "means" in relation to sacraments?
3. Can grace be administered apart from the Word and sacraments?
4. Should we differentiate between administration of Word and administration of sacrament in relation to grace?
Also, if you think there is other pertinent information in regards to this discussion, please feel free to add to this list if you think it would be helpful.
Thanks!
God's grace is a sufficient cause of man's salvation. But God gives grace to man in a way which is suitable to him. Hence it is that man needs the sacraments that he may obtain grace. (Summa Theologica, Part III)
Questions:
1. Is the difference between Reformed and Catholic theology in regards to the relationship between grace and the sacraments summarized in the words "administration" (Reformed) and "means" (Catholic)?
2. Does Reformed theology ever use the word "means" in relation to sacraments?
3. Can grace be administered apart from the Word and sacraments?
4. Should we differentiate between administration of Word and administration of sacrament in relation to grace?
Also, if you think there is other pertinent information in regards to this discussion, please feel free to add to this list if you think it would be helpful.
Thanks!
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