Brett Keane explains why the issue is found with OSAS and Free Gracers.
The doctrine of "free grace" theology, which emphasizes that salvation is received solely through faith in Jesus Christ without any requirement of works, repentance, or ongoing obedience, is a debated topic within Christianity. Critics argue it is flawed for several reasons, rooted in biblical, theological, and practical concerns. Below is a concise explanation of why some believe free grace theology is wrong, addressing key points of contention:
Undermines Repentance as a Biblical Requirement
Critics argue that free grace theology often downplays or redefines repentance, treating it as merely a change of mind about Christ rather than a turning away from sin. Passages like Acts 2:38 ("Repent and be baptized... for the forgiveness of your sins") and Luke 13:3 ("Unless you repent, you will all likewise perish") suggest repentance is integral to salvation. Free grace's minimal emphasis on repentance can seem to conflict with these teachings, potentially leading to a view of salvation that allows for untransformed lives.
Risk of Antinomianism
Free grace theology’s assertion that good works or obedience are not necessary for salvation can lead to antinomianism—the belief that Christians are free from moral law. Critics point to Romans 6:1-2 ("Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? By no means!") and James 2:17 ("Faith without works is dead") to argue that genuine faith naturally produces fruit. Free grace’s separation of salvation from any expectation of changed behavior may encourage a faith that lacks accountability or transformation.
Incomplete View of Faith
Opponents argue that free grace’s definition of faith as mere intellectual assent (believing in Christ’s atonement) is overly simplistic. Biblical faith, they contend, involves trust, commitment, and a response of the whole person, as seen in Hebrews 11, where faith is tied to action. By reducing faith to a one-time decision, free grace may neglect the ongoing, relational aspect of following Christ (John 15:4-5).
Neglects the Lordship of Christ
Free grace theology often rejects "lordship salvation," the view that acknowledging Christ as Lord (implying submission to His authority) is necessary for salvation. Critics cite Romans 10:9 ("If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord... you will be saved") and argue that separating Christ’s role as Savior from His role as Lord creates a truncated gospel. This can lead to a faith that accepts salvation but not discipleship, contrary to Jesus’ call in Matthew 16:24 to "take up your cross and follow me."
Potential for False Assurance
By emphasizing that salvation is secured by a single act of faith regardless of subsequent lifestyle, free grace can foster false assurance among those who profess faith but show no evidence of spiritual life. Critics point to Matthew 7:21-23, where Jesus warns that not everyone who calls Him "Lord" will enter the kingdom, suggesting that genuine faith is evidenced by obedience and fruitfulness.
Misinterpretation of Key Scriptures
Free grace advocates often rely on passages like Ephesians 2:8-9 ("For by grace you have been saved through faith... not of works") to argue against works-based salvation. However, critics note that verse 10 ("created in Christ Jesus for good works") indicates that works are the expected outcome of salvation, not its basis. Similarly, John 3:16 emphasizes belief but is contextualized by calls to obedience elsewhere (John 14:15). Free grace’s selective focus may miss the broader biblical narrative.
Practical Implications for Christian Living
Theologically, free grace can lead to a disconnect between justification and sanctification, potentially producing Christians who feel no obligation to pursue holiness. Hebrews 12:14 ("Without holiness no one will see the Lord") and 1 John 3:9 ("No one born of God makes a practice of sinning") suggest that a transformed life is evidence of true salvation. Critics argue that free grace’s framework risks undermining the call to holy living.
Counterpoints to Consider: Free grace proponents argue that their view upholds the purity of grace, thereby preventing salvation from becoming a works-based endeavor. They emphasize that requiring repentance or works risks legalism and obscures the sufficiency of Christ’s atonement.
They may interpret passages about works as relating to rewards in heaven rather than salvation itself (1 Corinthians 3:12-15). However, critics maintain that while salvation is indeed by grace through faith, the biblical portrait of faith includes a response that naturally leads to repentance and obedience.