The sweet work of effectual calling
As the minister speaks to the ear, Christ speaks, opens, and unlocks the heart at the same time; and gives it power to open, not from itself, but from Christ…. The manner of working of the reasonable creature, is to work freely by a sweet inclination, not by violence. Therefore when he works the work of conversion, he doth it in a sweet manner, though it be mighty for the efficaciousness of it.
Richard Sibbes, “Bowels Opened,” in The Works of Richard Sibbes (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth Trust, 1973), 2:63.
HT: The Old Guys.
