Irresistible Grace

“Blessed [is the man whom] thou choosest, and causest to approach [unto thee, that] he may dwell in thy courts: we shall be satisfied with the goodness of thy house, [even] of thy holy temple.” (Psalms 65:4)

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 of God that was satisfied for his elect by the blood of Christ demands it. Every ransomed soul shall be saved.

Bible Doctrine

The Scriptures plainly and universally declare this doctrine. Yes, irresistible grace is a Bible 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” (Psalm 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 - Psalm 65:4) The Lord Jesus said, with regard to his elect, redeemed sheep, “Them also I must bring” (John 10:16). He does not say he might bring them if they would consent to being brought, or if their will is not too strong in rebellion against his will. No! The Son of God must bring all God’s elect to glory, because he is the Good Shepherd responsible for their salvation.

Made Willing

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 this call.

But there is a personal, particular, effectual call of the Spirit given to chosen sinners at the appointed time of love (Ezekiel 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, spiritually dead sinners are raised to life and come to Christ. This is the first resurrection (John 5:25; Revelation 20:6). No, God does not save anyone against his will. Rather, he makes chosen sinners willing in the day of his power.

Those who would not (John 5:40) and could not (John 6:44) come to Christ by their freewill or good works are brought to Christ by the sovereign power and effectual, irresistible grace of God the Holy Spirit. — “It is the Spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing” (John 6:63). Aren’t you glad God would not take “No” for an answer from you?

Don Fortner

Listen to sermons at FreeGraceRadio.com