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speratus said:
I am trying to reconcile Paul Helm's article and the WCF. Would I be correct in stating that the change in a person's inner character and everything that flows from that change is not a part of his justification before God?
There is no reconciliation necessary as Paul Helm's doctrinal belief is in total agreement with that section of the Westminster Confession.

What Mr. Helm is stating is that only the "particular call", (aka: efficacious grace) brings about conversion, at which time a person believes and is justified. If it is of any help to you in understanding the biblical "ordo salutis", what Helm is referring to with the "particular call" is regeneration from which all the means of grace are given to the then "born from above" sinner. Conversion is the outward expression and result of that regeneration. And Justification occurs when the faith that is created in regeneration, is expressed. (Rom 10:14-17)

If you need/desire to read more on the biblical doctrine of "Efficacious Grace", you can go here:

Regeneration and Conversion, by Samuel Hopkins

Irresistible Grace, by John Murray

Efficacious Grace, by Loraine Boettner

In His Grace,

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simul iustus et peccator

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