Westminster Confession of Faith 10.4
“Others, not elected, although they may be called by the ministry of the Word, and may have some common operations of the Spirit, yet they never truly come unto Christ, and therefore cannot be saved: much less can men, not professing the Christian religion, be saved in any other way whatsoever, be they never so diligent to frame their lives according to the light of nature, and the laws of that religion they do profess; and to assert and maintain that they may is very pernicious, and to be detested.”
In this episode of Confessional Moments, we conclude our study of Westminster Confession of Faith chapter 10 by examining one of the most sobering doctrines in Scripture — that it is possible to experience real spiritual impressions, sit under faithful preaching, and yet never truly come to Christ.
The Confession teaches that while many are outwardly called by the Word and may even experience the common operations of the Holy Spirit, only those effectually called by God are brought into saving union with Christ. This paragraph also firmly rejects the idea that sincerity in any religion can lead to salvation apart from Christ.
Drawing from Scripture and the insights of the Puritan and Reformed tradition, this episode explores the difference between nearness to Christ and true conversion, the limits of religious experience, and the absolute necessity of Christ for salvation.
Scripture Reading & References
Matthew 13:20–21
Hebrews 6:4–5
John 6:44
Acts 4:12
Proverbs 14:12
Key Doctrinal Themes
Outward Call – The general proclamation of the gospel that goes out to all people through the preaching of the Word, which does not in itself save.
Common Operations of the Spirit – Non-saving works of the Holy Spirit that may bring conviction, restraint, or temporary change without producing true regeneration.
Effectual Calling – God’s sovereign and gracious work whereby He inwardly calls the elect, giving them new hearts and bringing them to saving faith in Christ.
Union with Christ – The spiritual reality in which believers are joined to Christ by faith, receiving all the benefits of salvation through Him alone.
Exclusivity of Christ – The biblical doctrine that salvation is found only in Jesus Christ, and not through any other religion, sincerity, or moral effort.
About the Host
Confessional Moments is hosted by Pastor Tim Beauchamp, teaching elder at Trinity Presbyterian Church (PCA). Pastor Tim is committed to helping Christians grow in doctrinal clarity, spiritual maturity, and confidence in Christ through the riches of the Reformed confessional tradition.
Church Website
Trinity Presbyterian Church (PCA)
www.trinitychurchguam.org