Catechism – Week 17 – Preceding Grace

What is Preceding Grace?

Note: Preceding grace is often referred to as prevenient grace, but the former is used for its simplicity.

Ephesians 2:1 – And you were dead in the trespasses and sins. (ESV)

How does Paul describe our life before coming to Jesus?
We were dead in our sins.

Why is this important?
Because we were dead, we could not accept Jesus by ourselves.

Illustration: If you’re sick, what can you do to make yourself better? Take medicine, rest, go to the doctor. Now if someone is dead what can they do to make themselves better? Nothing. When dead, you are unable to help yourself. In the same way before knowing Jesus, we were powerless to make ourselves alive.

John 6:44 – No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him. (ESV)

What allows someone to come to Jesus?
The Father has to draw him. God has to make the first step for us to ever be able to respond.

John 16:8 – And when [the Holy Spirit] comes, he will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment. (ESV)

Since we are dead in our sins, how can we know we are sinners?
The Holy Spirit shows people their sin and need for a savior.

Scripture Memory Verse:

John 6:44 – No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him. (ESV)

What is preceding Grace?
Preceding grace is God’s work to draw people to know him because they cannot do it on their own.

Adults and older students are encouraged to receive a fuller explanation from Dr. Tim Tennent (President of Asbury Theological Seminary) by clicking this link.