Q.31. What is effectual calling?

A. Effectual calling is the work of God’s Spirit,[t] whereby, convincing us of our sin and misery,[v] enlightening our minds in the knowledge of Christ,[w] and renewing our wills,[x] he doth persuade and enable us to embrace Jesus Christ, freely offered to us in the gospel.[y]

[t] 2 Tim. 1:9. 2 Thess. 2:13,14.

[v] Acts 2:37.

[w] Acts 26:18.

[x] Ezek. 36:26,27.

[y] John 6:44,45. Phil. 2:13.

We are here taught,

1. That effectual calling is the work of the Holy Spirit.

2. That in effectual calling the Spirit convinces of sin.

3. That in effectual calling the Spirit convinces of misery.

4. That in effectual calling the mind is enlightened in the knowledge of Christ.

5. That in effectual calling the will is renewed.

6. That in effectual calling we are persuaded to embrace Jesus Christ.

7. That in effectual calling we are enabled to embrace Jesus Christ.

8. That Jesus Christ is freely offered to all men in the gospel.