“Conversion
is a work above man's power. We are 'born, not of blood, nor of the
will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God' (John 1:13).
Never think you can convert yourself. If ever you would be savingly
converted, you must despair of doing it in your own strength. It is a
resurrection from the dead (Ephesians 2:1), a new creation (Galatians
6:15; Ephesians 2:10), a work of absolute omnipotence (Ephesians 1:19).
Are not these out of the reach of human power? ... This is a
supernatural work ... 'Not by works of righteousness which we have done,
but of mercy he saved us' ... 'Of his own will he begat us' (James
1:18). We are chosen and called unto sanctification, not for it
(Ephesians 1:4). God finds nothing in man to turn His heart, but enough
to turn His stomach; He finds enough to provoke His loathing, but
nothing to excite His love. Look back upon yourself, O Christian!
Reflect upon your swinish nature, your filthy swill, your once beloved
mire (2 Peter 2). Behold your slime and corruption ... How then should
holiness and purity love you? ... Who but must needs cry, Grace! Grace!
... What but free grace could move God to love you.”
Joseph Alleine, "A Sure Guide to Heaven"
4 comments:
Excellent inspirational post Gregg.
Yvonne.
That list bit isn't very seeker-sensitive. But the truth of our awful condition magnifies God's grace even more.
very inspiring and challenging post. Thanks for sharing.
Bookmarking this one!
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