Catechisma

Q30. How does the Holy Spirit apply to us the salvation Christ purchased?

The Holy Spirit applies Christ’s salvation to us by creating faith in us and joining us to Christ through his effectual calling.

Scripture Proofs — King James Version

1

Ephesians 2:8

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:

2

Ephesians 3:17

That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love,

1 Corinthians 1:9

God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord.

Parent Guide

Discuss this question together

Discussion Questions

  1. 1

    What two things does the Holy Spirit do to apply Christ's salvation?

  2. 2

    What does it mean to be "joined to Christ"?

  3. 3

    Can someone believe in Jesus by their own willpower alone?

Illustration

A branch cannot attach itself to a tree. Someone has to graft it in. The Holy Spirit is the one who connects us to Christ. He creates the faith we need and joins us to Jesus so that everything Jesus earned becomes ours.

Application

If you trust in Jesus, thank the Holy Spirit for giving you that faith. If you are not sure you trust Jesus yet, ask God to do this work in your heart. Faith is his gift to give.