Connect Isaiah 44:1 with New Testament teachings on God's chosen people. Bold Promise from the Prophet “Now listen, O Jacob My servant, Israel whom I have chosen.” (Isaiah 44:1) The Heart of “Chosen” in Isaiah 44:1 • “Jacob…Israel” points to a specific people God elected out of sheer covenant love (Deuteronomy 7:6–8). • The verb “have chosen” (Hebrew bachar) is deliberate, personal, permanent. • The immediate context (Isaiah 44:2–5) promises refreshing Spirit-outpouring that will confirm their identity. Carried Forward by Jesus • Jesus applies the same electing language to His disciples: “You did not choose Me, but I chose you” (John 15:16). • In Christ, Israel’s calling is not canceled; it is fulfilled and expanded (Matthew 5:17). • The Good Shepherd gathers “other sheep” so there will be “one flock” (John 10:16). Chosen in the Epistles • Ephesians 1:4-5 — “He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world… He predestined us for adoption.” • Colossians 3:12 — “Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves…” • 1 Peter 2:9 — “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood…” echoing Isaiah 43:20-21 and 44:1. Jews and Gentiles Together • Romans 9:23-26 links Hosea and Isaiah to show Gentiles grafted in beside a believing Jewish remnant. • Galatians 3:28-29 — Unity in Christ does not erase ethnic Israel; it widens the family to “Abraham’s seed.” • Romans 11:17-24 — Natural branches (ethnic Jews) and wild branches (Gentiles) share one nourishing root. Unbroken Line of Promise 1. Election originates with the Father (Isaiah 44:1; Ephesians 1:4). 2. Redemption is accomplished by the Son (Matthew 1:21; Titus 2:14). 3. Assurance is sealed by the Spirit (Isaiah 44:3-5; Ephesians 1:13-14). Practical Takeaways • God’s choosing underscores grace; it silences boasting (1 Corinthians 1:26-31). • Identity precedes activity: we serve because we are chosen, not to become chosen (2 Timothy 1:9). • The same faithful God who preserved Israel preserves every believer today (Philippians 1:6). |
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