monergism

[ mon-er-jiz-uhm ]

noun

, Theology.

1. the doctrine that the Holy Ghost acts independently of the human will in the work of regeneration. Compare synergism ( def 3 ).

Other Words From

• moner·gist noun
• moner·gistic adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of monergism¹

First recorded in 1865–70; mon- + erg- ¹( def ) + -ism

Example Sentences

During the first period of his activity in Wittenberg, Melanchthon was in perfect agreement with Luther also on the question of man's inability in spiritual matters and the sole activity, or monergism, of grace in the work of his salvation.

From Project Gutenberg

But it cannot be denied that, in his endeavors to harmonize universal grace with the fact that not all, but some only, are saved, Melanchthon repudiated the monergism of Luther, espoused and defended the powers of free will in spiritual matters, and thought, argued, spoke, and wrote in terms of synergism.

From Project Gutenberg

In its doctrine of predestination as well as of free will, therefore, the Formula of Concord is not a compromise between synergism and monergism, but signifies a victory of Luther over the later Melanchthon.

From Project Gutenberg

In De Servo Arbitrio everything is pressed into service to disprove and explode the assertion of Erasmus that the human will is able to and does "work something in matters pertaining to salvation," and to establish the monergism or sole activity of grace in man's conversion.

From Project Gutenberg