Although all Evangelicals believe that salvation is by faith, there is a controversy concerning the conditions of salvation, the certainty of salvation, and the consequences of salvation. There are three views: True Grace (see 2 Pet. 5:12; a.k.a. "Free Grace"), Decisionism, sometimes called cheap grace, and Lordship Salvation, which some call Sovereign Grace. Decisionism is more of a common practice than a developed doctrine.
All three positions point to passages of Scripture they claim prove their point of view. So, this is not a debate about individuals. It is not even a dispute over theologies. It is controversy over the explanation of several terms and passages of Scripture. What is the definition of faith? What is repentance? What is the meaning of disciple? What is the basis of assurance? Does God give some individuals faith? Are those who come to Christ changed? Do they always produce immediately observable works? Do they always endure to the end? What is the meaning of such passages as Revelation 3:20; Romans 6; 1 John 3:9; Hebrews 12:14; James 2; John 15:2; John 10:27-28; Matthew 24:13; 1 John 219; Philippians 1:6; Luke 8:13; John 2:24; Acts 8:20; 2 Corinthians 13:5; 2 Peter 1:19, etc.
The Salvation Controversy
clarifies the issues and expound the major passages of the Scriptures involved in the controversy. It also includes a chapter on a historical perspective concerning some of the issues in this controversy.