Quote:
Originally Posted by Aquila
Let's look at Acts 19:1-6 closely...
The problem with the three-step notion is that it disregards the Holy Ghost's work from start to finish. They see the Holy Ghost as being strictly a factor in the third step of their three step liturgy in approaching the Lord. The truth is, the Holy Ghost is present and abiding from the moment one comes to faith in Christ Jesus, else they could never believe with a faith that pleases the Lord. Christianity isn't a three step recipe...it's a journey into greater and greater Christ likeness from child like faith to empowered faithfulness and obedience. |
This is a great study of the verse.
You conclusion was actually taught by John Wesley in a manner..
He taught 3 differernt "phases" or types of grace that the Holy Spirit acts in our lives....
Prevenient Grace is that grace of the Holy Spirit calling, or wooing, us before we even know of his existance. This is the "tug" at our heart that leads to come to repentance. As was said, we can't even confess Jesus as Lord with out the Holy Spirit
Justifying Grace is the grace that causes God to justify, of save, us. It acts at the moment of salvation (which would be belief if you're a "one stepper", or baptism for a "two stepper"
Sactifying Grace sanctifiess, or perfects, us for his work. It gives us power over sin and and equates to "receiving the Holy Ghost". It calls us to be Holy people. It is the full power of of the Holy Ghost.
This third experience is important, and finalizes God's work of conversion, but is not the first instance of the Holy Ghost in our lives.
You summerize this well in your explanation. For those history buffs, Weslyan Theology was the basis for Pentecostal and Holiness teaching.
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