The argumentative movement
- 1Created nature has real powers and goods, though wounded by sin.
- 2The supernatural end exceeds what nature can attain by its own power.
- 3Grace is therefore a gratuitous gift that heals, elevates, and perfects nature.
Theological anthropology
Grace and nature
Grace heals and elevates nature rather than destroying it, raising the person toward supernatural beatitude.
Guiding question
How can salvation transform created nature without replacing it?
Why it matters
This principle governs Aquinas's accounts of sin, virtue, sacraments, merit, freedom, and supernatural life.