Beyond the Basics

Question 1

What is “operative auxilium grace” for Aquinas?

Answer 1

1. Intends God as the end in the initial push. God moves the person to conversion and the recognition that God is the true end.
2. Avoiding temptation and perseverance. While in the state of grace, habitual grace does not suffice and it is God that moves the will and the will is simply moved.

Question 2

What is “cooperative auxilium grace” for Aquinas?

Answer 2

1. The person accepts God as the end. Initial conversion. 2. The choice of the person to cooperate with grace wills towards God as his supernatural end.

Question 3

What is “operative habitual grace” for Aquinas?

Answer 3

1. You become a new creation in Christ.

2. The new being is the completion of the conversion process.

Question 4

“What is “cooperative habitual grace” for Aquinas?

Answer 4

1. Theological virtues are given with this grace.
2. Provides the possibility for “operation” (action) that is morally and supernaturally good.
3. Can grow or diminish based on our actions.

Question 5

What is the difference between “cooperative” and “operative” grace for Aquinas?

Answer 5

1. Operative grace means “only God can do this.” We cannot justify ourselves before God. Only God can.
2. Cooperative grace means our cooperation (or rejection) of grace in our actions.

Question 6

What are the three levels of reverence?

Answer 6

1. Dulia - the reverence we give to Saints
2. Hyperdulia - the reverence we give to Mary as the greatest of Saints and Mother of God
3. Latria - the reverence and worship we give to God alone