Molinism

Molinism the name given to the system of grace and election taught by Louis Molina (q.v.). The kind of prescience denominated in the Romish schools Scientia media is that foreknowledge of future contingencies which arises from an acquaintance with the nature and faculties of rational beings, of the circumstances 'in which they shall be placed, of the objects that shall be presented to them, and of the influence which their circumstances and objects must have on their actions. This system has been commonly taught in the Jesuit schools; but a modification of it was introduced by the celebrated Spanish divine, Suarez (q.v.), in order to save the doctrine of special election. Suarez held that although God gives to all men grace absolutely sufficient for their salvation, yet he gives to the elect a grace which is not alone in itself sufficient, but which is so attempered to their disposition, their opportunities, and other circumstances, that they infallibly, although yet quite freely, yield to its influence. This modification of Molina's system is called CONGRUISM. Molinism must not be confounded either with Pelagianism or semi-Pelagianism, inasmuch as Molinism distinctly supposes the inability of man to do any supernatural act without grace (q.v.). SEE THOMISTS; SEE WILL, FREE.

⇒See also the International Standard Bible Encyclopedia.