We believe that (A) man can never do a good work, properly so called, until the grace of God is implanted in his heart, and that (B) nothing is spiritually good but what God Himself is pleased to communicate to, and work in, the soul, both to will and to do of His good pleasure. And we also believe that (C) man’s works, good or bad, have not anything to do with his call, or being quickened, by the Holy Spirit.
A: Ro 8:8, So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.
B: Php 2:13, For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.
C: 2Co 3:5, Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God. Eph 2:3-9, Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: that in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: not of works, lest any man should boast. Ti 3:5, Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost. Heb 13:21, Make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is wellpleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
