Operative and Cooperative Grace and the Question of Justification by Faith: A Contemporary Transposition

Abstract

The categories of operative and cooperative grace are rarely used today, but the problems are still evident in various ecumenical dialogues. This paper will argue that the category of ‘autonomous spiritual procession,’ developed by Robert Doran in the context of his recent work in trinitarian theology, may shed light on the question of cooperation. The article will then apply this insight to the tensions between Lutheran and Catholic positions on justification by faith.