Irresistible Grace
There are some sinners in this world from
whom God will not take "No" for an answer. Those sons and daughters
of Adam who were chosen to salvation before the world began and redeemed by the
blood of Christ at Calvary MUST be saved. THE PURPOSE of God, which cannot be
changed or overturned, demands it. THE JUSTICE which has been satisfied for
God's elect by the blood of Christ demands it too.
THE SCRIPTURES PLAINLY DECLARE THIS
DOCTRINE. It was promised to Christ, as he took his seat upon the throne of
glory, "Thy people shall be willing in the day of thy power" (Psa.
110:3). David considered this a matter for great thanksgiving and praise. He
said, "Blessed is the man whom thou CHOOSEST," {That
is God's election!}, "and CAUSEST to approach unto thee." {That is
the Spirit's effectual call, or irresistible grace!} (Psa. 65:4). The Lord
Jesus said, with regard to his elect, redeemed sheep, "Them also I MUST
BRING" (John
Without question, God's saving grace, THE
WORK OF GOD THE HOLY SPIRIT IN THE NEW BIRTH, IN REGENERATION, CALLING, AND CONVERSION IS IRRESISTIBLE. All who have experienced
grace know the irresistible power of grace. It is not suggested that chosen
sinners repent and trust Christ the first time they hear the gospel, or that
they do not resist the Spirit's call. All men resist his call! But there is a
personal, particular, effectual call of the Spirit given to chosen sinners at
the appointed time of love (Ezek. 16:6-8), that cannot be resisted. As the Lord
Jesus called Lazarus from the tomb and he that was dead came forth; so when the
Spirit of God calls the elect to repentance and faith in Christ, they come to
Christ. He does not save anyone against his will. He makes chosen sinners
willing in the day of his power. Those who would not (John
Don Fortner