Stephen Langton on the Value of Good Deeds Performed in the Absence of Love. A Critical Edition of Theological Question 85

In question 85 of Quaestiones Theologiae, Stephen Langton (ca 1150–1228) deals with the problem whether there is any reward from God for good deeds performed in the absence of love (opera facta extra caritatem). This study presents a critical edition of q. 85 (transmitted in two versions, 85.1 and 85.2), preceded by a philological introduction and an overview of the content of both texts. Langton analyses possible mechanisms of getting reward for such deeds, taking into account that they did not arise from the love given by God, so they are not inspired by God’s grace. In accordance with some authorities, he accepts that such deed may be rewarded: 1) by some goods received in this life, 2) by the ability to receive grace, 3) by reduction of the penalty after death. Within complex and subtle discussions he points out, above all, that: although someone who performed a good deed extra caritatem can receive some good in this life as a reward, it is not given according to his or her due (ex condigno) but only in virtue of divine grace; the ability to receive grace does not make such a person closer to grace, but is a specifi c faculty of being able to receive it, which disappears when that person commits a sin; the eternal punishment may be reduced only in the sense that by performing good deeds the agent avoids sins that would entail major penalty.