Expert: Susan Milillo - 11/2/2009

Question
I read on the net the following and need to know if it is true. Especially the last portion.
As you will see in the way these verses are worded, they will specifically tell us that no one can come to Jesus to receive His gift of eternal salvation unless God the Father first starts to draw that person to Him. And then it says that no one can say that Jesus is Lord unless it is done "by" the Holy Spirit.

That no one can say Jesus is Lord? Any thoughts on this would be greatly appreciated. regards, Mr. Stroud

Answer
Mr. Stroud,

   I think it means that no one would WANT to say Jesus is Lord - it's not like someone couldn't force the words out of their mouth, or even say the words mockingly, right ?  But no one can say it and mean it unless the Holy Spirit is already at work in their hearts.
   And as for the first part, yes, it all is of God - salvation is a gift of God - Ephesians 2:8-9.   Romans says how we are spiritually dead - and other places in the epistles, like the beginning of Ephesians 2 - When you think about it like this - a dead man can't revive himself.
It's all of God. He is mighty and awesome, is He not?! And gracious, that He would draw _any_ of us to Himself!!

      Feel free to write back with more thoughts please!

Love in Him,
Susan M.