Topical Encyclopedia The concept of the "Election of Grace" is a theological doctrine rooted in the Christian understanding of God's sovereign choice in the salvation of individuals. This doctrine is primarily derived from the Apostle Paul's writings, particularly in the New Testament, where he expounds on the nature of God's grace and the divine selection of believers.Biblical Foundation The term "Election of Grace" is most explicitly mentioned in Romans 11:5-6 , where Paul writes, "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." Here, Paul emphasizes that the remnant of Israel, and by extension all believers, are chosen not based on their works or merits but solely through God's grace. Theological Context The doctrine of election is deeply intertwined with the broader theological themes of predestination and divine sovereignty. It asserts that God's choice to save certain individuals is not contingent upon human actions or decisions but is an expression of His unmerited favor and purpose. This is further supported by Ephesians 1:4-5 , which 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." Grace and Works A critical aspect of the Election of Grace is the distinction between grace and works. The doctrine underscores that salvation is a gift from God, not a result of human effort. This is echoed in Ephesians 2:8-9 : "For it is by grace you have been saved through faith, and this not from yourselves; it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast." The Election of Grace thus highlights the gratuitous nature of salvation, affirming that it is entirely dependent on God's initiative and not on human achievement. Israel and the Church In Romans 9-11, Paul addresses the relationship between Israel and the Church, using the concept of election to explain God's ongoing plan for both groups. He argues that while many in Israel have rejected the Messiah, a remnant remains chosen by grace. This remnant serves as a testament to God's faithfulness and His unchanging promises. The Election of Grace assures believers that God's purposes transcend human understanding and that His covenantal promises remain intact. Implications for Believers For believers, the Election of Grace provides assurance of salvation, rooted in the unchangeable will of God. It encourages humility, recognizing that salvation is not earned but given. It also inspires gratitude and worship, as believers acknowledge the depth of God's love and mercy. Furthermore, it calls Christians to live lives reflective of their calling, as those chosen to be holy and blameless before God. Controversies and Debates The doctrine of election has been a point of theological debate throughout church history, particularly concerning the extent of God's election and human free will. Different Christian traditions interpret the Election of Grace in varying ways, with some emphasizing God's sovereignty and others highlighting human responsibility. Despite these differences, the core affirmation remains that salvation is ultimately a work of God's grace. Nave's Topical Index John 15:16You have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that you should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatever you shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you. Nave's Topical Index John 17:6 Ephesians 1:4 Ephesians 2:10 2 Thessalonians 2:13 Library Now this Election the Apostle Demonstrating to Be... Predestination is Sometimes Signified under the Name of ... Election is of Grace, not of Merit. Augustin Confesses that He had Formerly Been in Error Concerning ... Calvinistic Methodism. On the Words of the Gospel, Luke ix. 57, Etc. , Where the Case of ... John Chapter xv. 15, 16 Free Grace Of the Eternal Election, by which God Has Predestinated Some to ... Election Resources What does Peter mean when he tells us to make our calling and election sure in 2 Peter 1:10? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the doctrine of election? | GotQuestions.org How are predestination and election connected with foreknowledge? | GotQuestions.org Election: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Election of Christ, As Messiah Election of Grace of Christ As Messiah Election of Grace of Good Angels Election of Grace of Ministers Election of Saints, Is by Christ Election of Saints, Is for the Glory of God Election of Saints, Is in Christ Election of Saints, Is of Grace Election of Saints, Is: According to the Foreknowledge of God Election of Saints, Is: According to the Purpose of God Election of Saints, Is: Eternal Election of Saints, Is: Irrespective of Merit Election of Saints, Is: Personal Election of Saints, Is: Recorded in Heaven Election of Saints, Is: Sovereign Election of Saints, Is: Through Faith Election of Saints, Is: Through Sanctification of the Spirit Election of Saints, Is: To Adoption Election of Saints, Is: To Conformity With Christ Election of Saints, Is: To Eternal Glory Election of Saints, Is: To Good Works Election of Saints, Is: To Salvation Election of Saints, Is: To Spiritual Warfare Election: Ensures to Saints: Acceptance With God Election: Ensures to Saints: Belief in Christ Election: Ensures to Saints: Blessedness Election: Ensures to Saints: Divine Teaching Election: Ensures to Saints: Effectual Calling Election: Ensures to Saints: Protection Election: Ensures to Saints: The Inheritance Election: Ensures to Saints: Vindication of Their Wrongs Election: Ensures to Saints: Working of all Things for Good Election: Saints May Have Assurance of Election: should be Evidenced by Diligence Election: should Lead to Cultivation of Graces Related Terms |
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