Salvation is not a cooperation between the works of man and the work of God. All salvation is the work of God alone upon which man is the object and recipient. (Ezek.20:9; 14; 22; 44, Isa.11:11-17) Salvation was purposed and decreed of God the Father by Sovereign Election.( Eph.1:3-6; Rom 8:28-30; 2Tim1:9; Rom. 9:11-15) The redemption and righteousness of the elect were accomplished by the work of God the Son. (1Cor. 1:30; Eph 1:7; Col. 1:14; Heb 9:12; 10:14) And the Work of regeneration. faith, and all graces are of the Holy Spirit of God. (Titus 3:5; John 3:5-8; 1 Cor. 2:9-12)
What part then has man in the salvation of his soul? All men must believe to be saved for no one will believe for you. ( John 3:16; 6:35; 7:38) but even our faith is the gift of God. (John 1:12-13; 1John 5:1; Eph 2:8) Must not a man be willing? (Rev. 22:17; John3:16) Yes they are all willing; all of the elect, redeemed and regenerated souls of men are willing because we are “made willing in the day of His power.” (Ps.110:3) Must not we perform good works? (Titus 3:8;14; James 2:18; 3:13) Yes all believer’s must, but even our good works are ordained of God. (Eph 2:10)
So then what part has man in the salvation of His own soul? No part at all, but Salvation is the Work of God alone. Therefore all the glory and praise of it belongs to Him!
-Fred Evans
