Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Concept Electing, in a biblical context, refers to the divine selection or choosing of individuals or groups for a specific purpose or destiny. This concept is deeply rooted in the sovereignty of God, who, according to Scripture, exercises His will in the election of people for salvation, service, or specific roles within His divine plan. Old Testament Foundations The concept of election is evident in the Old Testament, where God chooses individuals and nations for His purposes. For instance, God elected Abraham to be the father of a great nation (Genesis 12:1-3). Similarly, Israel is described as God's chosen people: "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" (Deuteronomy 7:6). New Testament Teachings In the New Testament, the doctrine of election is further developed, particularly in the writings of the Apostle Paul. 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." This passage highlights the pre-temporal nature of God's election, emphasizing that it is based on His will and purpose. Election and Salvation The New Testament also links election with salvation. Romans 8:29-30 explains, "For those God foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brothers. And those He predestined, He also called; those He called, He also justified; those He justified, He also glorified." This sequence underscores the process by which God brings the elect to salvation, from foreknowledge to glorification. The Role of Grace Election is closely associated with the grace of God. It is not based on human merit or works but on God's gracious choice. As Paul writes in Romans 11:5-6 , "So too, at the present time there is a remnant chosen by grace. And if it is by grace, then it is no longer by works. Otherwise, grace would no longer be grace." Controversies and Interpretations The doctrine of election has been a subject of theological debate, particularly concerning human free will and divine sovereignty. Some interpret election as unconditional, where God's choice is not based on any foreseen merit or action. Others propose a conditional election, where God's foreknowledge of human response plays a role. Despite differing views, the centrality of God's sovereign choice remains a consistent theme in Scripture. Practical Implications For believers, the doctrine of election provides assurance of salvation, as it rests on God's unchanging purpose. It also calls for humility and gratitude, recognizing that salvation is a gift of grace. Moreover, election serves as a motivation for evangelism, as believers are called to proclaim the gospel, trusting that God will draw His elect to Himself. Key Biblical References · Genesis 12:1-3 · Deuteronomy 7:6 · Ephesians 1:4-5 · Romans 8:29-30 · Romans 11:5-6 · 1 Peter 2:9: "But you are 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" . The doctrine of election, while complex, remains a profound testament to God's sovereign grace and purpose throughout biblical history. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Elect.Library Electing Grace; Or, Saints Beloved in Christ, Eph. 1 3 &C. Electing Grace; Or, Saints Beloved in Christ. Eph. 1:3Ff. Heaven's Nurse Children Second Proposition of Arminius Ninth Proposition of Arminius Abiding Fruit How Can I Obtain Faith? The Inexhaustible Barrel Spurgeon -- Songs in the Night This Doctrine Confirmed by Proofs from Scripture. Thesaurus Electing (1 Occurrence)... Noah Webster's Dictionary (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Elect. Multi-Version Concordance Electing (1 Occurrence). Romans 9:11 and even then ... /e/electing.htm - 6k Vote (3 Occurrences) Election (6 Occurrences) Frustrated (7 Occurrences) Elected (1 Occurrence) Based (40 Occurrences) Actions (62 Occurrences) Adoration Church (110 Occurrences) Resources Who are the elect of God? | GotQuestions.orgShould Christians celebrate Halloween? | GotQuestions.org What is conditional security? | GotQuestions.org Electing: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Electing (1 Occurrence)Romans 9:11 Subtopics Related Terms |
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