Q&A: Monergism and Synergism

Question

What are monergism and synergism?

Answer

Mongerism comes from a combination of the Greek word mono, meaning one or alone, plus the Greek word ergon, meaning work. Together they mean a single force or energy, and when used of salvation it means that salvation is by God’s grace alone; that he’s exclusively and entirely responsible for a person’s salvation. In contrast to this is synergism which means that salvation is through a cooperative act between God and man.

Mongerism is the biblical view of salvation. Synergism is another gospel which is no gospel at all. Since man is dead in trespasses and sin, he can’t believe the gospel in and of himself (Eph. 2:1-3). He must first be born again (John 3:1-8). It is God alone who gives divine illumination and understanding of his Word so that one might believe the gospel (John 6:63, 65). It is God alone who opens the heart to believe (Acts 16:14).

Who heals the blind, the lame, deaf mute, and those with withered hands? Who raises the dead and transforms the soul? It is God alone.