Believing, repenting, and the like, are the product of the…
“Believing, repenting, and the like, are the product of the new nature; and can never be produced by the old corrupt nature... as the child cannot be active in his own generation, so a man cannot be active in his own regeneration. The heart is shut against Christ: man cannot open it, only God can do it by his grace.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Human transformation depends on divine grace; the old self cannot self-reform.
In simple terms: God must change the heart, not self effort
Seek God's grace for true change
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- personal repentance
- spiritual renewal
- church teaching
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Can you identify areas where you rely on self‑effort rather than grace?
- How does acknowledging dependence on divine help reduce pride?
Human effort alone cannot achieve deep renewal.