How does being "chosen" relate to New Testament teachings on believers' identity? Chosen from Eternity—Ephesians 1:4 “For He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless in His presence.” (Ephesians 1:4) What “Chosen” Means in the New Testament • Personal, not random—God selected individuals “in Him” (Christ), not an abstract group. • Pre-temporal—this decision was made “before the foundation of the world,” underscoring God’s sovereign initiative. • Purpose-driven—the outcome is “to be holy and blameless,” shaping how believers see themselves and live. Identity Shaped by Being Chosen 1. Adopted Children • “He predestined us for adoption as His sons through Jesus Christ” (Ephesians 1:5). • Chosen status turns distant sinners into cherished family members. 2. Holy & Blameless Saints • Selection carries the expectation of set-apart living (Colossians 3:12). • Identity is not primarily what we escape, but who we become—holy people reflecting Christ. 3. A Royal Priesthood • “You are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation” (1 Peter 2:9). • Priestly identity means direct access to God and responsibility to represent Him to the world. 4. Purposeful Ambassadors • “I appointed you to go and bear fruit—fruit that will remain” (John 15:16). • Chosen believers carry a commissioning to reveal Christ through word and deed. 5. Secure & Justified • “Who will bring any charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies” (Romans 8:33). • Election undergirds assurance; identity rests on God’s verdict, not human opinion. Practical Outworkings of a Chosen Identity • Confidence—no fear of rejection; we are accepted “in the Beloved” (Ephesians 1:6). • Humility—chosen by grace, not merit (Ephesians 2:8-9). • Unity—one family, breaking down ethnic, social, and cultural barriers (Galatians 3:28). • Mission—living “to proclaim the virtues of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light” (1 Peter 2:9). • Holiness—clothing ourselves “with hearts of compassion, kindness, humility” (Colossians 3:12). Living Out the Reality • Start each day remembering: “He chose me in Christ.” • Let that truth silence accusation, fuel worship, and motivate obedient love. |
    |