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Finney’s explanation focuses on the fact that we are to actively trust in God for deliverance. It is active, trusting faith in Christ—not exclusively our own effort that accomplishes victory. “This is the victory that overcomes the world, even our faith” (1 John 5:4). Self-improvement efforts are essential but if they are engaged in apart from surrendering to God and His working in us they will not be enough. Only He purifies the heart, filling it with His presence and love where once we were filled with sin. It is God who transforms us, not we ourselves.

Well, while I disagree on how he got to this conclusion, I must say that I agree on his conclusion. But it would have been better not to have gone through Peoria.