What is Preparationism?

Definition and Historical Roots

Preparationism is a theological viewpoint that underscores the necessity of a preparatory work in a person’s heart leading up to salvation. It often appears in writings from the Puritan era (16th–17th centuries), where ministers such as William Perkins, Thomas Hooker, and John Preston described a series of steps or experiences—like conviction of sin and a profound sense of spiritual need—that “prepare” the individual to trust in Christ.

This perspective typically emphasizes that no one can fully embrace salvation without recognizing personal sin and one’s inability to achieve righteousness apart from divine grace (cf. Romans 3:20: “Therefore no one will be justified in His sight by works of the law. For the law merely brings awareness of sin.”). Historical writings by these Puritan teachers present sermons and tracts focusing on sin’s weight and the awakened conscience as catalysts for seeking redemption.

Biblical Foundations

Several scriptural passages lay the groundwork for the idea that the Holy Spirit awakens or “prepares” individuals:

• Conviction of Sin: Jesus declared, “When He comes, He will convict the world in regard to sin and righteousness and judgment” (John 16:8). Preparationism aligns with the belief that God’s Spirit convicts the sinner, making them aware of their fallen condition.

• God’s Kindness Leading to Repentance: Romans 2:4 states, “God’s kindness leads you to repentance.” While repentance is an act, the prompting to turn from sin often follows a season of reflection on God’s holiness.

• Law as a Schoolmaster: Paul explains, “So the law became our guardian to lead us to Christ, that we might be justified by faith” (Galatians 3:24). In many Preparationist teachings, the Law confronts people with their inability to keep it perfectly, thereby preparing them to seek righteousness in Christ alone.

• Heart Prepared for the Word: In the Parable of the Sower, Jesus describes a heart that must be properly “tilled” (Luke 8:11–15). Though not typically referred to as “preparation” in Scripture, many theologians see it as an illustration of how God works in hearts beforehand—removing “rocks” or “thorns” of unbelief—so the seed of the gospel can sprout.

Relationship to Salvation by Grace

While Preparationism focuses on an individual becoming aware of sin and need, classical teachings maintain that these steps are still entirely within the scope of God’s grace. It is not about earning salvation but about acknowledging that the Spirit brings about sorrow for sin (2 Corinthians 7:10: “Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation without regret…”). In other words, any willingness or “preparedness” is ultimately the result of divine enablement, not human effort (cf. Ephesians 2:8–9).

Thus, a Preparationist viewpoint still upholds faith in the crucified and resurrected Christ (Romans 10:9–10) as the singular means of salvation. The process of self-examination, conviction, and repentance forms the preliminary movement of the Spirit in an individual’s life, ensuring that when the gospel is proclaimed, it falls on a spiritually receptive heart.

Puritan Influence and Pastoral Application

During the Puritan era, influential pastors taught that individuals should “search” themselves for evidence of genuine conviction. Thomas Hooker’s writings describe a sinner “saturated” with a consciousness of guilt, acknowledging God’s holiness and personal unrighteousness. This was meant to mitigate complacency and bring about heartfelt repentance. William Perkins, similarly, preached that the soul, aware of divine judgment, becomes morally and spiritually prepared to receive the free gift of the gospel.

In pastoral settings, ministers would counsel seekers to examine their hearts carefully, discerning whether the Holy Spirit had stirred them into a deep humility and awareness of sin’s consequences. Sermons and tracts from this era, along with diaries and conversion accounts, detail intense periods of soul-searching as the Spirit’s preliminary work.

Modern Perspectives

Some modern theologians question or reject Preparationism, concerned it may suggest that an individual must generate a certain level of remorse or contrition to “qualify” for salvation. Others maintain that the Puritan emphasis on preparation simply recognizes a step-by-step process in which God sovereignly moves a person from spiritual blindness to clarity about personal guilt, and onward to trust in Christ.

Regardless of one’s stance, many believers affirm the scriptural pattern: the law exposes sin, God’s kindness awakens repentance, and the Spirit draws the sinner to faith. Preparationism, properly taught, guards against a superficial “quick decision” that lacks genuine conviction and an earnest turning to Christ.

Examples and Encouragement

• Acts 16:29–31: The Philippian jailer’s cry, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” exemplifies the outcome of personal conviction. Though brief, his vivid fear and urgency illustrate a heart readied for the gospel, to which Paul and Silas responded, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved.”

• Testimonies Through History: Numerous accounts of revival and awakening—from the Great Awakening under Jonathan Edwards and George Whitefield to modern missionary movements—include dramatic periods where listeners became deeply aware of evil and sought forgiveness. These narratives help illustrate what Preparationism proposes.

• Personal Readiness: Today, individuals experiencing a dawning realization of sin may find themselves in a “preparatory” stage. This stage is not meant to discourage but to spur an earnest repentance and wholehearted trust in the resurrected Christ.

Conclusion

Preparationism underscores the belief that God often uses means—conviction through the Law, sermons, personal crises, or patient reflection—to break through spiritual complacency. It is a historical and theological framework most famously articulated by the Puritans, centering on the Holy Spirit’s power to prepare hearts before conversion.

In any discussion of Preparationism, it is crucial to remember that salvation remains a gift: “He saved us, not by the righteous deeds we had done, but according to His mercy…” (Titus 3:5). Preparation may be a divine process leading individuals to their knees, but the ultimate cause, authority, and sustaining power for salvation is in Christ alone (John 14:6).