Day 64

Of God’s Decree

Chapter 3, Paragraph 6.

” … are effectually called unto faith in Christ, by His Spirit working in due season, are justified, adopted, sanctified,…”

Scripture Lookup

Romans 8:30.

2 Thessalonians 2:13.

Reflection

When God calls you, you answer.

At a time appointed by God, the Holy Spirit works in His elect, calling them to faith in Christ. This call works. It is effectual. No one walks away unchanged from the Holy Spirit working in them. The elect will respond by believing in Christ. This is assumed in Romans 8 –  those who love God are those who are called. No one loves God who has not been called, and vice versa.

Those who are called are also justified. This means that the Christian is declared righteous due to Christ’s work on our behalf. We are forgiven for our sins because Christ has paid the penalty for them, and we are now viewed and accepted as righteous by God.

Those who are called are also adopted. We are considered to be of the household of God, and join with the elect as brothers and sisters in Christ. This vast family of believers are joint heirs to glory.

Those who are called are also sanctified. We are set apart and a process of transformation occurs, where we become more and more like Christ. The sin in our lives is put to death more and more, and our lives increasingly exhibit holiness.

All the elect share these traits. We can speak into each other’s lives to encourage and rebuke no matter how different our circumstances are, because as Christians we have these things in common. And we have God to thank for it! He is the One who works all these things in us, and we know nothing can keep Him from accomplishing His task.

Questions to Consider

• What comfort does effectual calling give you?