Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Concept The concept of "being chosen" in the Bible refers to the divine selection of individuals or groups for a specific purpose or mission. This selection is an act of God's sovereign will and grace, often involving a call to service, leadership, or a particular role in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan. Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, the idea of being chosen is prominently associated with the nation of Israel. God chose Israel to be His special people, a kingdom of priests, and a holy nation. This is articulated in Deuteronomy 7:6 : "For you are a people holy to the LORD your God. The LORD your God has chosen you to be a people for His prized possession, above all the peoples on the face of the earth." The patriarchs, such as Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, were chosen by God to be the forefathers of this nation. God's choice of individuals like Moses, David, and the prophets further illustrates His sovereign selection for leadership and prophetic roles. For instance, David was chosen to be king over Israel, as seen in 1 Samuel 16:12 : "So Jesse sent for him. He was ruddy, with beautiful eyes and a handsome appearance. And the LORD said, 'Rise and anoint him, for he is the one.'" New Testament Context In the New Testament, the concept of being chosen extends to the followers of Christ. Believers are described as chosen by God for salvation and service. Ephesians 1:4 states, "For He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless in His presence." The apostles were specifically chosen by Jesus to be His witnesses and to spread the Gospel. In John 15:16 , Jesus tells His disciples, "You did not choose Me, but I chose you. And I appointed you to go and bear fruit—fruit that will remain—so that whatever you ask the Father in My name, He will give you." Theological Implications Being chosen by God carries significant theological implications. It underscores God's sovereignty and grace, as His choice is not based on human merit but on His divine purpose and love. Romans 9:15-16 highlights this: "For He says to Moses: 'I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion.' So then, it does not depend on man's desire or effort, but on God's mercy." The chosen are called to live in a manner worthy of their calling, reflecting God's holiness and purpose. 1 Peter 2:9 describes believers as "a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God's own possession, to proclaim the virtues of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light." Practical Application Understanding the biblical concept of being chosen encourages believers to embrace their identity and purpose in Christ. It calls for a response of faith, obedience, and service, recognizing that being chosen is both a privilege and a responsibility. Believers are to live out their calling with humility, gratitude, and a commitment to God's mission in the world. Topical Bible Verses 2 Chronicles 6:6But I have chosen Jerusalem, that my name might be there; and have chosen David to be over my people Israel. Topicalbible.org Jeremiah 1:5 1 Peter 2:9 Matthew 12:18 Exodus 3:14 Greek 4041. periousios -- of one's own possession ... chosen. From the present participle feminine of a compound of peri and eimi; being beyond usual, ie Special (one's own) -- peculiar. see GREEK eimi. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4041.htm - 7k 139. hairesis -- choice, opinion 2475. Israelites -- an Israelite Library Degrees of Glory in Heaven Corresponding with the Dignities of the ... Why, when all Will to be Blessed, that is Rather Chosen by which ... John Chapter xv. 15, 16 That the Love of God Above all Things is Common to all Lovers. Beloved, and yet Afflicted Of the Section Where it is Recorded, that Being Moved with ... The Call of Matthew. A Pilgrimage to Rome Prayer for and with Each Other. A Continuation of the Preceding Discourse. How Every One, While ... Resources What does the Bible say about being nosey? | GotQuestions.orgIs being gay a sin? Is it a sin to be gay? | GotQuestions.org What are the implications of God being infinite, unlimited, and unmeasurable? | GotQuestions.org Being: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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