Believing is not a Mere Human Decision

Excerpts from an article by Jim Coram (from Unsearchable Riches, Vol 102, No. 2 – March 2011)

We who believe in what God has said are referred to as believers. We are a part of the body of Christ. We have been given assurances as to what lies ahead for us in the ages to come. But do we believe because we have made the free choice to do so? Are we therefore smarter than those who have heard the same gospel but do not believe? Consider these words from a recent article in Unsearchable Riches Magazine.

“Believing the evangel does not result from some sort of mere human decision, but from the powerful operations of God. “Faith” (or “faith[fullness],” cf Galatians 5:22) is a fruit of the spirit; not a “requirement” of salvation. It is “in the grace of God,” then, that we believe (cp 1 Corinthians 15:10,11), being “graciously granted … to be believing” on Christ (Philippians 1:29).

Thus “God parts to each” – that is, to each member of the ecclesia, which is to say, to each one whom He calls – “the measure of faith” which each one enjoys (Romans 12:3).”

 

Unsearchable Riches is published six times annually by Concordant Publishing Concern, 15570 Knochaven Road, Santa Clarita, CA 91387 (661-252-2112).