Who Then Can Be Saved? A Discussion of Views Within the Christian Tradition Concerning the Salvation of the Non-Christian

Author

Logan A. Davis, University of MississippiFollow

Date of Award

Spring 2026

Document Type

Undergraduate Thesis

Department

Philosophy and Religion

First Advisor

Drew Billings

Second Advisor

James Bos

Third Advisor

Neil Manson

Relational Format

Dissertation/Thesis

Abstract

This thesis argues that, contrary to popular conception, the Christian Tradition is not strictly exclusivist in its understanding of salvation or in its assessment of the fate of the non-Christian but rather displays a rich diversity of views. Both the Christian Tradition and the Christian scriptures are characterized by a certain ambiguity on this issue; although a definitive answer may exist, it is not easily identifiable. Given this ambiguity, the study presents a representative spectrum of theological positions within the Christian Tradition and analyzes their respective treatments of the salvation of the non-Christian. In doing so, it seeks to provide an accessible yet theologically rigorous foundation for renewed discussion of the question: Can the non-Christian be saved according to the Christian Tradition?

Comments

A thesis submitted to the faculty of The University of Mississippi in partial fulfillment of the requirements of the Sally McDonnell Barksdale Honors College.

Oxford, MS December 2025

©2025
Logan A. Davis
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Recommended Citation

Davis, Logan A., "Who Then Can Be Saved? A Discussion of Views Within the Christian Tradition Concerning the Salvation of the Non-Christian" (2026). Honors Theses. 3368.
https://egrove.olemiss.edu/hon_thesis/3368

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