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Key Doctrines

Irresistible Grace

The Reformed teaching (the 'I' of TULIP) that God's saving grace effectually draws the elect so that they certainly come to faith — also called effectual calling.

Not To Be Confused With

'Irresistible' doesn't mean grace drags the unwilling; it means grace so renews the will that the person freely and surely comes. Arminians affirm grace but hold it can be finally resisted (prevenient grace).

Tied to monergism and unconditional election: when God calls the elect inwardly, he gives a new heart (Ezek 36:26) that wills to come. Critics fear it overrides freedom; defenders answer that grace liberates the will rather than coercing it.

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Related Word Studies

Irresistible Grace — Definition | Theologos Media | Theologos Media