Divine Choice

Divine choice refers to the concept that God, in His infinite wisdom and authority, makes decisions and selections according to His will and purpose. This doctrine is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative, where God's choices are evident in His selection of individuals, nations, and events to fulfill His divine plan.

One of the most prominent examples of divine choice is God's selection of Israel as His chosen people. In Deuteronomy 7:6-7 , it is written, "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 peoples on the face of the earth. The LORD did not set His affection on you and choose you because you were more numerous than the other peoples, for you were the fewest of all peoples."

God's choice is also evident in the calling of individuals for specific purposes. For instance, God chose Abraham to be the father of many nations (Genesis 12:1-3), David to be king over Israel (1 Samuel 16:12-13), and the prophets to deliver His messages (Jeremiah 1:5). In the New Testament, Jesus chose the twelve apostles to be His closest followers and to spread the Gospel (Mark 3:13-19).

The doctrine of divine choice extends to the New Testament teaching of election, where believers are chosen by God for salvation. Ephesians 1:4-5 states, "For He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless in His presence. In love He predestined us for adoption as His sons through Jesus Christ, according to the good pleasure of His will."

Sovereignty

The sovereignty of God is the theological concept that God possesses supreme power and authority over all creation. He is the ultimate ruler, and His will is final and unchallengeable. This sovereignty is a central theme throughout Scripture, affirming that God orchestrates all things according to His purpose.

Psalm 115:3 declares, "Our God is in heaven; He does as He pleases." This verse encapsulates the essence of divine sovereignty, emphasizing that God's actions are not subject to human constraints or understanding. Similarly, Isaiah 46:9-10 proclaims, "Remember the former things of old; for I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like Me, declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times things not yet done, saying, 'My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all My purpose.'"

God's sovereignty is also evident in His control over nature and history. He commands the elements, as seen in Jesus calming the storm (Mark 4:39), and directs the course of nations, as illustrated in Daniel 2:21 : "He changes the times and seasons; He removes kings and establishes them."

The sovereignty of God assures believers of His ultimate authority and the fulfillment of His promises. Romans 8:28 provides comfort, stating, "And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose."

In summary, divine choice and sovereignty are foundational doctrines that underscore God's ultimate authority and purposeful selection in the unfolding of His divine plan. These concepts affirm that God is actively involved in His creation, guiding and directing all things according to His perfect will.