In this review of the theology of Charles Finney, the author focuses on his doctrine of justification. He takes note of Finney’s strange teaching that justification is a governmental pardon and not a judiciary acquittal. There are also multiple conditions for justification, according to Finney, and not simply faith as the Protestants claim. His view of atonement undermines the centrality of the cross of Christ as the one single act of God in atoning for sin.

Charles Finney can be known as the father of altar call. This article examines Finney's views of salvation and shows how his view of man's nature and salvation distorts the biblical view.