Scripture consistently affirms that our salvation and ability to believe are initiated and executed by God's will.
The nature of salvation as an act of God's will is supported by various passages in Scripture. For instance, Philippians 2:13 states, 'For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.' This indicates that not only is the ability to act, but also the desire to believe, comes from God. Paul further clarifies this in Romans 9:16, which teaches that 'it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that showeth mercy.' Thus, the conviction and faith necessary for salvation are also gifts from God, illustrating His sovereignty in the redemption process.
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