What is effectual calling?

Answer

Effectual calling is the work of God's Spirit () by which, convincing us of our sin and misery (), enlightening our minds in the knowledge of Christ (), and renewing our wills (), He persuades and enables us to embrace Jesus Christ freely offered to us in the Gospel ().

Read the 5 proof texts (KJV)

2 Timothy 1:9: Who hath saved us, and called [us] with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began,
Acts 2:37: Now when they heard [this], they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men [and] brethren, what shall we do?
Acts 26:18: To open their eyes, [and] to turn [them] from darkness to light, and [from] the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me.
Ezekiel 36:26: A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh.
John 6:44-45: ⁴⁴No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day. ⁴⁵It is written in the prophets, And they shall be all taught of God. Every man therefore that hath heard, and hath learned of the Father, cometh unto me.