Required reading
Systematic Theology by Charles Hodge (Vol 2) (Available from Amazon or free here) - Continue Chapter 14 (Vocation) by reading up to the heading '4. Efficacious grace'.
My summary
This week Hodge teaches us about common grace.
He outlines different views and then presents his own. He nicely sums up the views with the following: 'In opposition, therefore, first, to the proper naturalistic theory, which excludes God entirely from his works, and denies to Him any controlling influence either over material or mental operations and effects ; secondly, in opposition to the doctrines which identify the operations or influence of the Spirit with the power of the truth ; and thirdly, in opposition to the theory which ignores the difference between the providential efficiency of God and the operations of the Holy Spirit; the Scriptures teach that the influence of the Spirit is distinct from the mere power, whether natural or supernatural, of the truth itself; and that it is no less to be distinguished from the providential efficiency (or potentia ordinata) of God which cooperates with all second causes.'
What grabbed me
Hodge's definition of common grace is not as broad as it is usually defined.
But I did appreciate his clear teaching about the need for the Spirit's work upon the human heart: 'The reason is given why the truth in itself is inoperative, and why the inward teaching of the Spirit is absolutely necessary. That reason is found in the natural state of man since the fall. He is spiritually dead. He is deaf and blind. He does not receive the things of the Spirit, neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. It is therefore those only who are spiritual, i. e., in whom the Spirit dwells, and whose discernment, feelings and whole life are determined by the Spirit, who receive the truths which are freely given unto all who hear the gospel. This is the doctrine of the Apostle as delivered in 1 Corinthians ii. 10-15. And such is the constant representation of the word of God on this subject.'
The dead never awaken on their own.
Next week's reading
Continue Chapter 14 (Vocation) by reading up to the heading '5. Proof of the doctrine'.
Now it's your turn
Please post your own notes and thoughts in the comments section below.
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