Be content with His promises

Calvin's Institutes (1559)
Book 3 of 4 - How We Receive the Grace of Christ

Chapter 24 - Election confirmed by God's Call

1-5 - Called and incorporated

1. Rom 8:29-30; John 17:6; 6:44 all speak of calling. If you are called, you not only CAN come, but you WILL come. This cll removes hard hearts - Ezek 11:19; 36:26. "The call is coupled with election."

2. This call is "the illumination of the Spirit." See 1 John 3:24; 4:13. It is from God's sovereign choice - Isa 65:1; Josh 24:2-3; Acts 13:48.

3. "Some make man God's co-worker, to ratify election by his consent.... As if we are merely given the ability to believe, and not, rather, faith itself!" Election doesn't depend on faith, but faith depends on election.

4. We should seek proof of our election in its fruits (faith), not in divining God's secret decrees. Look to God's call in the Word - Rom 8:33.

5. Election is always into Christ - Eph 1:4 - so look to Him. Rom 8:32; 13:14; Eph 4:15; John 3:16; 5:24; 6:35, 51, 58. "Be content with His promises" in Christ.