The concept of "God's Elect" is a profound theme woven throughout the Scriptures, referring to those whom God has chosen for a special purpose and relationship with Him. This election is not based on human merit but on God's sovereign grace and purpose. Living as God's elect involves understanding one's identity in Christ, embracing the responsibilities that come with this calling, and walking in a manner worthy of the gospel.

Biblical Foundation

The doctrine of election is rooted in the Old and New Testaments. In the Old Testament, Israel is often referred to as God's chosen people. Deuteronomy 7:6 states, "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." This election was not due to Israel's greatness but because of God's love and faithfulness to His promises.

In the New Testament, the concept of election is expanded to include all who are in Christ. Ephesians 1:4-5 declares, "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 that believers are chosen in Christ, emphasizing the grace and purpose of God in salvation.

Identity and Assurance

Living as God's elect begins with understanding one's identity in Christ. Believers are called to recognize that they are chosen, holy, and beloved. Colossians 3:12 exhorts, "Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with hearts of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience." This identity provides assurance and security, knowing that God's election is irrevocable and rooted in His eternal purpose.

Responsibilities of the Elect

Being chosen by God carries significant responsibilities. The elect are called to live lives that reflect their calling and to bear witness to the transformative power of the gospel. 1 Peter 2:9 describes the elect 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." This calling involves proclaiming God's excellencies and living in holiness and obedience.

The elect are also called to persevere in faith. 2 Peter 1:10 urges believers, "Therefore, brothers, strive to make your calling and election sure. For if you practice these things, you will never stumble." This perseverance is not a means to earn election but a demonstration of the reality of God's work in the believer's life.

Community and Fellowship

Living as God's elect is not an individualistic endeavor but is deeply connected to the community of faith. The elect are part of the body of Christ, called to love and serve one another. Ephesians 4:1-3 encourages believers to "walk in a manner worthy of the calling you have received, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, and with diligence to preserve the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace."

Hope and Future Glory

The elect live with the hope of future glory, knowing that God's purposes will be fully realized in the end. Romans 8:30 assures, "And those He predestined, He also called; those He called, He also justified; those He justified, He also glorified." This hope motivates the elect to live faithfully in the present, anticipating the fulfillment of God's promises.

In summary, living as God's elect involves embracing one's identity in Christ, fulfilling the responsibilities of this calling, engaging in the community of faith, and holding fast to the hope of future glory. The elect are called to live lives that reflect the grace and purpose of God, bearing witness to His transformative power in the world.