How does Romans 1:7 connect with Ephesians 1:4 about being chosen? Setting the Scene Romans 1:7: “To all who are in Rome, loved by God and called to be saints: Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.” Ephesians 1:4: “For He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless in His presence. In love” Key Ideas Embedded in Romans 1:7 • Loved by God – an unchanging affection originating in Him, not in us. • Called to be saints – “saints” (hagioi) means “holy ones,” those set apart. • Grace and peace – the benefits granted to those who are loved and called. Every phrase anticipates the richer treatment of “chosen” in Ephesians 1:4. Paul writes the greeting to Rome assuming a settled identity that Ephesians later explains. Parallels with Ephesians 1:4 1. Loved / In Love • Romans: “loved by God.” • Ephesians: “In love… He chose us.” God’s love is both the motive and the atmosphere of election. 2. Called to be Saints / Chosen to be Holy • Romans: “called to be saints.” • Ephesians: “chose us… to be holy and blameless.” Being “saints” is not honorary; it describes the destiny God secures for His people. 3. Present Standing / Eternal Plan • Romans shows the present reality—believers already possess grace and peace. • Ephesians looks back “before the foundation of the world,” revealing the eternal origin of that status. Other Scriptures That Echo the Theme • 1 Peter 2:9 – “a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation.” • John 15:16 – “You did not choose Me, but I chose you.” • 2 Timothy 1:9 – “He saved us and called us with a holy calling… according to His own purpose and grace given us in Christ Jesus before time began.” • 1 Corinthians 1:2 – believers “sanctified in Christ Jesus and called to be saints.” • 1 Thessalonians 1:4 – “we know, brothers loved by God, that He has chosen you.” • 1 John 3:1 – “See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God.” Why “Chosen” Matters for Daily Life • Security – our identity rests on God’s eternal choice, not fluctuating feelings. • Purpose – because we are chosen “to be holy,” every decision becomes an opportunity to reflect His character. • Humility – election leaves no room for boasting; grace initiated everything. • Unity – all believers share the same source of calling, promoting mutual love and patience. Living in the Reality of Being Chosen • Receive grace and peace daily, as Paul’s greeting intends. • Pursue holiness, knowing it is the very goal of God’s eternal plan. • Rest in divine love that pre-dated creation and will outlast time. • Extend to others the same grace that marked God’s choice of you. Romans 1:7 gives the welcome; Ephesians 1:4 supplies the backstory. Together they assure every believer: you are loved, called, and eternally chosen to live holy and blameless before Him. |
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