Know What You Believe with Michael Horton Sola Gratia: Nature, Grace, Nominalism
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Dec 19, 2025 
Gavin Ortlund, a pastor and theologian known for his insights on sola gratia and assurance, joins Michael Horton and Jordan Cooper to tackle misconceptions of the Reformation. They discuss the roots of justification and explore the claim that it stems from medieval nominalism. Ortlund emphasizes the importance of union with Christ while clarifying biblical grace versus infused transformation. The trio also examines moral virtue within Protestantism, advocating for a revival of historic Protestant ethics through accessible resources.
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Nominalism Misrepresents Justification
- The nominalism charge says Luther's justification is a legal fiction grounded in arbitrary divine decree.
- Michael Horton counters that Protestant justification rests on Christ's imputed righteousness, not arbitrary decree.
Luther's Early Influences Were Mystical
- Luther's early formation drew from German mystics and Neoplatonism rather than strict nominalism.
- Horton notes Luther praised Plato over Aristotle and critiqued his nominalist teachers.
Union With Christ Frames Justification
- Gavin Ortlund suggests union with Christ better frames Luther's justification.
- He argues imputation flows from real incorporation into Christ, making justification organic rather than arbitrary.