The Moral Influence Model, also known as Moral Influence Theory, is a theological perspective that fundamentally asserts God's proactive and loving initiative in the salvation of humanity from the very onset of sin.
Key Tenets of the Moral Influence Model
This model presents a specific understanding of God's role in salvation, highlighted by what it affirms and what it denies regarding reconciliation with humanity.
What it Affirms
The Moral Influence Theory firmly states a beautiful truth:
- God's Loving Initiative: From the origin of sin, God, driven by love, took the initiative to save humanity. This underscores God's inherent desire for humanity's well-being and restoration.
What it Denies
Crucially, the Moral Influence Model also defines itself by what it does not affirm regarding the means of reconciliation:
- Denial of Exclusive Reconciliation through a Suffering Redeemer: It denies that reconciliation to God comes only through the righteousness of a suffering Redeemer. This distinguishes it from other atonement theories that place sole emphasis on propitiation or satisfaction through Christ's suffering.
Biblical Context
The foundational context for this model often traces back to the earliest moments of human sin and God's immediate response. As referenced, when Adam and Eve sinned, God banished them from His presence (Gen. 3:9, 15, 21). The Moral Influence Model frames God's subsequent actions as a loving initiative to save humanity, even in the wake of such a separation.
To summarize the core aspects:
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Affirmation | God, out of love, proactively initiated the salvation of humanity from the very beginning of sin. |
| Denial | Reconciliation with God is not exclusively achieved through the righteousness of a suffering Redeemer; it broadens the understanding of how humanity is brought back into fellowship with God. |
The Moral Influence Model emphasizes God's inherent love and His active role in drawing humanity back to Himself, focusing on His demonstrative love as the primary means of influencing human hearts towards repentance and reconciliation.
