Acts 16:14. 'Now a certain woman named Lydia heard us. She was a seller of purple from the city of Thyatira, who worshipped God (ie. a Gentile follower of Judaism). The Lord opened her heart to heed the things spoken by God.'

She did not open her own heart to heed Paul; nor did Paul open her heart by his preaching. It was Almighty God who sovereignly used Paul's preaching to open her heart. For 'Salvation belongs to our God.'

I think some of the problems that have arisen on this thread stem from the 'instantaneous' view of regeneration taught by that otherwise great and good man, John Murray. If one takes the view, as I do, that regeneration starts with God's particular call, which leads to awakening and conviction which precede repentance and faith, which itself precedes Justification, which is the final stage of regeneration, then many of the problems aired on this thread are solved.

This was the view of most of the Puritans. A helpful book to read on the subject is, 'Physicians of souls' by Peter Masters (Wakeman Books ISBN 1-870885-34-5).

Blessings,
Steve


Itinerant Preacher & Bible Teacher in Merrie England.
1689er.
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http://marprelate.wordpress.com