The theology of Lordship salvation emerged as a rebuttal to the misconceptions associated with “Easy Believism” Theology. This school of thought developed during the 1980s and early 1990s, fueled by worries that the twin benefits of salvation — justification and sanctification — were being increasingly seen as distinct entities.
Several Dallas Seminary scholars claimed that justification and sanctification were completely separate things. Zane Hodges of Dallas Seminary claimed in his 1980s work, “Absolutely Free,” that one can embrace Jesus as their Savior (the Redeemer) and be justified.
However, they don’t have to recognize Him as their Lord. This has been dubbed “Easy Believism,” which leads to lawlessness and libertarianism.
Because of this, John MacArthur authored “The Gospel According to Jesus: What Is Authentic Faith” to rectify this rampant belief. He contended that Christ is both the Savior and the Lord for everyone who believes. Thus, MacArthur and his supporters rose to prominence for founding the Lordship Salvation Camp
