Dead Men Don’t Rescue Themselves

Scripture: Ephesians 2:1, 4–5

“And you were dead in the trespasses and sins… But God, being rich in mercy… made us alive together with Christ.” (Ephesians 2:1, 4–5)

Martin Luther put it plainly in his explanation of the Third Article: we cannot, by our own reason or strength, believe in Jesus Christ or come to Him. The Holy Spirit must call us by the Gospel. A dead person doesn’t take a step toward his own rescue; he is carried to it. If you believe today, it is entirely because God moved first, out of mercy.

Prayer: Holy Spirit, thank You for calling me by the Gospel when I could not call out to You myself. Keep enlightening me with Your gifts and keeping me in the one true faith. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Application Question: Where in your life have you been tempted to think your faith is something you accomplished? How does it change your posture toward God to know He moved first, in mercy, to make you alive?