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The Historic Faith Podcast  /  "The Balance of Faith and Works"  /  Discussion Questions
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Question 8
David summarizes Clement’s message as “security, but not unconditional eternal security… if we act wickedly, we have a lot to fear”; where do you feel resistance to that claim, and what practical categories would Clement likely use to define “acting wickedly” in a church conflict like Corinth’s?
Another way to ask: David says Clement offers security, but not unconditional eternal security, because wicked actions should cause fear. Where do you push back on that, and how would Clement likely define “acting wickedly” in a church fight like Corinth’s?

Direct Answer The transcript suggests resistance often comes from wanting assurance without conditions, but Clement’s approach ties security to continued obedience and repentance. In Corinth’s conflict, “acting wickedly” would likely include behaviors that fuel schism—slander, whispering, pride, disobedience, and empty talk—since Clement repeatedly targets those specific sins.

Support from Transcript:

  • David’s summary: “security, but not unconditional eternal security… if we act wickedly, we have a lot to fear.”
  • Clement warns: “Let us fear him and forsake those wicked works which proceed from evil desires,” connecting fear to real moral choices.
  • Dean highlights Clement’s context: he is writing “about the schism going on” and trying to restore “peace.”
  • Clement calls them to “return to the blameless and holy way of life,” turning from “empty talkfulness and the wicked desires.”
  • Clement’s practical list in chapter 30: “standing far off from all whispering and evil speaking… being justified by our works and not our words.”
  • Clement also commands obedience: “let us become obedient to his glorious and holy will,” and to “serve God with fear and in holiness.”
Discussion Follow-ups Which of Clement’s categories—whispering, evil speaking, empty talk, pride—feels most “normal” in church disputes today? How might that normalizing be the very thing Clement warns puts people in spiritual danger?

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