"The Lord opened her heart to heed the things spoken by Paul" (Acts 16:14). These words speak of Lydia, a woman who worshiped God but had not yet heard the gospel to believe in Christ. The Lord opened her heart to hear and respond to the gospel. The word "heart" describes her mind, will, and emotions. It is a term for the person within.
God's preceding grace opens hearts to hear the gospel and receive Christ (John 1:12-13). It may be identified with the convicting work of the Holy Spirit (John 16:7-11). It is the gospel call for us to trust the Lord Jesus Christ (Ephesians 1:13). The Spirit of God works in our hearts to enable us to believe the truth of the gospel (1 Thessalonians 1:5).
The Lord opens hearts to hear and understand the gospel. He enables us to say yes to the call of Christ. God works concurrently with our choice. Jesus stands at the door of your life and knocks. You may open the door by believing the gospel to receive Christ (Revelation 3:20; John 1:12).
Because of our sinful nature, the Lord must act upon our hearts to enable us to respond to the gospel of Christ. This work of God's preceding grace enables us to respond freely to the gospel. In conversion, we respond to God's preceding grace through repentance and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.
The Lord opens hearts to hear and understand the gospel. He enables us to say yes to the call of Christ. God works concurrently with our choice. Jesus stands at the door of your life and knocks. You may open the door by believing the gospel to receive Christ (Revelation 3:20; John 1:12).
Because of our sinful nature, the Lord must act upon our hearts to enable us to respond to the gospel of Christ. This work of God's preceding grace enables us to respond freely to the gospel. In conversion, we respond to God's preceding grace through repentance and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.
