Arguments to establish cooperation in conversion.
Arguments to establish cooperation in conversion.
§ 38. Elsewhere we have explained the arguments by which the work of conversion is attributed either totally or partly to the natural powers of free choice. (1) “People are commanded to turn to God. Therefore they are able to turn by their own powers.” We respond. We dealt with this argument in detail in the treatise On Free Choice [Commonplace XIV] (§ 72).
(2) “If the work of conversion is not divided between the grace of God and man’s will, an absolute decree is introduced, and God is established as a respecter of persons.” Response: We have also treated this argument in detail in the treatise On Election and Reprobation [Commonplace X] (§ 139). Therefore we do not wish to repeat what we have already said.