Topical Encyclopedia The concept of being "elected" or "chosen" is a significant theme throughout the Bible, reflecting God's sovereign will and purpose in selecting individuals or groups for specific roles, blessings, or salvation. This divine election underscores God's initiative in the unfolding of His redemptive plan.Old Testament Foundations The idea of being chosen by God is evident from the earliest narratives. In Genesis, God chooses Abraham to be the father of a great nation, Israel, through whom all nations would be blessed (Genesis 12:1-3). This election is reiterated in Deuteronomy 7:6, where Moses reminds the Israelites, "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 election of Israel is not based on their merit but on God's love and faithfulness to His promises (Deuteronomy 7:7-8). This theme of divine choice is further illustrated in the selection of individuals like David, whom God chose to be king over Israel (1 Samuel 16:12-13). New Testament Revelation In the New Testament, the concept of election expands to include the Church, composed of both Jews and Gentiles. Jesus speaks of His followers as chosen, saying, "You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit—fruit that will remain" (John 15:16). This indicates a purposeful selection for service and spiritual fruitfulness. The Apostle Paul elaborates on the doctrine of election in his epistles. In Ephesians 1:4-5, he writes, "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." Here, election is linked to God's eternal purpose and grace, emphasizing that believers are chosen in Christ. Paul also addresses the topic in Romans 8:29-30, where he outlines the golden chain of salvation: "For those God foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son... And those He predestined, He also called; those He called, He also justified; those He justified, He also glorified." This passage highlights the comprehensive nature of God's electing work, from foreknowledge to glorification. Theological Implications The doctrine of election raises important theological questions about God's sovereignty and human responsibility. Scripture affirms that God's choice is based on His will and purpose, not human merit (Romans 9:11-16). Yet, it also calls individuals to respond in faith and obedience, as seen in 2 Peter 1:10: "Therefore, brothers, strive to make your calling and election sure. For if you practice these things, you will never stumble." Practical Applications Believers are encouraged to find assurance and comfort in their election, knowing it is rooted in God's unchanging love and purpose. This assurance is meant to inspire holiness and mission, as the elect are called to be a light to the world and to proclaim the excellencies of Him who called them out of darkness (1 Peter 2:9). In summary, the biblical teaching on election underscores God's sovereign grace and the believer's call to live out their chosen status in faithfulness and service. Nave's Topical Index Matthew 20:16So the last shall be first, and the first last: for many be called, but few chosen. Nave's Topical Index Matthew 22:14 1 Peter 2:9 Revelation 17:14 Library On the Providence of God The First Delegated General Conference of 1812 Rejection of Errors The Second Helvetic Confession, AD 1566. General Conference of 1824 From the Close of the General Conference of 1816 to the ... The General Conference of 1836 Anti-Romanistic Attitude. From the Close of the General Conference of 1832 to the Beginning ... General Index to Socrates' Ecclesiastical History. Resources Why did God choose Israel to be His chosen people? | GotQuestions.orgIs it possible for a person to be saved but not predestined? | GotQuestions.org Are Jews saved because they are God's chosen people? Will Jews go to Heaven even if they do not trust in Jesus? | GotQuestions.org Chosen: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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