What does it mean that salvation is not of the will of man?
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It means that human effort or decision-making does not initiate salvation; it is entirely God’s gracious work.
The assertion that salvation is 'not of the will of man' emphasizes the doctrine of total depravity, which states that human beings, due to the fall, cannot choose God or initiate their salvation. In passages like John 1:12-13, the phrase indicates that being 'born of God' is beyond human capability or choice. This reality underlines the biblical truth that our inclination towards God and our faith are gifts given to us by God. Ephesians 2:8-9 further reinforces this notion by declaring that salvation is a gift from God, provided by grace through faith, not based on our works or decisions, eliminating any grounds for human boasting in their salvation.
Scripture References:
John 1:11-13, Ephesians 2:8-9, Romans 8:7-8
Commentary