Tuesday, June 24th: In 529 AD, a small council in southern Gaul made a big theological statement. The Council of Orange affirmed that salvation begins and ends with God’s grace. Drawing from Augustine’s teachings, they declared that humans cannot choose God apart from divine help—but also stopped short of saying grace overrides our will. In this episode of The Daily Grind, John explores the historical context of this council, the grace-centered doctrines it affirmed, and why those decisions still matter today. From the fall of Rome to modern faith struggles, this episode will remind you that we are saved not by striving, but by grace. Listeners will walk away with a deeper understanding of grace and a renewed gratitude for the God who rescues us.

Resources & Scriptures

Key Scriptures:

• Ephesians 2:1–9 – “For it is by grace you have been saved…” This passage powerfully outlines humanity’s spiritual deadness and God’s saving initiative.
• Romans 3:10–12 – “There is no one righteous, not even one…” This echoes the doctrine of total depravity affirmed at Orange.
• John 6:44 – “No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws them…” A cornerstone verse on prevenient grace.
• Titus 3:4–7 – “He saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of His mercy…”
• Philippians 2:12–13 – “Work out your salvation... for it is God who works in you…” A beautiful balance of divine initiative and human response.

Primary Historical Sources:

• Canons of the Second Council of Orange (529 AD) – Especially Canons 1–25. Available via Christian Classics Ethereal Library (CCEL) and various online archives. These include direct statements on grace, free will, and the necessity of divine aid

• Notable canon: “No one comes to faith unless God grants it.”

• Writings of Augustine of Hippo – Especially On the Spirit and the Letter and On Nature and Grace.

Recommended Books & Articles:

• "Grace Alone: Salvation as a Gift of God" by Carl Trueman – A clear and engaging explanation of sola gratia with historical insights.
• "Church Councils: 100 Questions and Answers" by Paul Pavao – Brief, readable entries on key events like the Council of Orange.
• "The Story of Christian Theology" by Roger E. Olson – See chapters on Augustine and semi-Pelagianism.

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