Resisting God's Grace

The TULIP acronym uses the expression irresistible grace. But, is grace irresistible? R. C. Sproul, a Reformed theologian wrote, "The term irresistible grace is misleading." He further wrote, "God's grace is resistible in the sense that we can and do resist it." Dr. Sproul concluded, "Thus I prefer the term effectual grace."

Scripture is clear that people resist the grace of God. "You always resist the Holy Spirit" (Acts 7:51). Scripture also speaks of those who have "insulted the Spirit of grace" (Hebrews 10:29). Until the Holy Spirit comes with conviction and changes our hearts, we resist God's grace. Thereafter, we desire to follow Christ and seek to do God's will.

Dr. Sproul used his preferred term, effectual grace. That is grace which effectively changes the hearts of people through the gospel of Jesus Christ. In the book of Acts, Lydia is an example of effectual grace. "The Lord opened her heart to heed the things spoken by Paul" (Acts 16:14). She heard the gospel, believed and was baptized.

If people resist the grace of God by rejecting the gospel, it's their choice. They are responsible for their own just condemnation. However, if people hear and believe the gospel of Christ, they do so because the Spirit of grace has worked effectively in their hearts.

God's Mercy for You

God our Father is merciful (Luke 6:36). As a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ, you have received God's mercy. Justice was served for sinners in Christ crucified, according to His mercy He saved us (Titus 3:5). God's mercy for you is in Christ.

God's mercy for you is at the cross of Jesus. His mercy takes away all of your sins. The blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin (1 John 1:7). God's mercy is for you as a believer in God's Son. Jesus was raised from the dead to prove every believer's justification from all sin. 

God's mercy for you is in Christ crucified. Jesus suffered and died for sinners like you and me. Justice demands eternal judgment for all who have sinned. Justice was served at the cross, when Jesus paid the full price for our sins. 

God's mercy for you is believing in Christ. Justice says, Because you are guilty of breaking God's law, you deserve eternal judgment. Mercy says, You are guilty but Jesus took your judgment at the cross. Justice was served on your behalf, that you may receive mercy by faith in Christ alone. 

God mercy for you is through the gospel of Christ, who died for our sins and risen for our justification (Romans 4:25). Those who reject God's mercy in Christ receive God's justice, which is condemnation. However, there is no condemnation for those who receive God's mercy in Christ (Romans 8:1).