This is a presentation of the main contrasting positions of three major systems: Pelagianism, Semi-Pelagianism (Arminianism), and Calvinism.

Was Gottschalk, the ninth-century monk of Orbais, standing alone in his preaching of the sovereignty of God? This article indicates that it was not the case that in a time when Semi-Pelagianism dominated, he stood alone. Investigation of eighth and early ninth-century literature reveals an influence of Pelagian and Semi-Pelagian soteriology.

The author discusses the origins of the battle between Augustine's teachings of predestination and grace, and Pelagius's views on the same issues. Pelagianism later developed into semi-Pelagianism, a teaching that has remained to this day.

The author provides a preview of the Pelagian controversy from early church history, which involved Augustine and Pelagius (a later development of Pelagianism became known as semi-Pelagianism). The controversy in question centres around the nature of the fall of man, saving grace, and the will of man.