Topical Encyclopedia The concept of the "Election of Grace" concerning Christ as the Messiah is a profound theological theme that underscores the divine selection and purpose of Jesus Christ in the redemptive plan of God. This doctrine is rooted in the understanding that God's sovereign choice and grace are central to the unfolding of salvation history, particularly in the person and work of Jesus Christ.Biblical Foundation The election of Christ as the Messiah is intricately linked to the promises and prophecies of the Old Testament, which foretell the coming of a divinely appointed Savior. Isaiah 42:1 declares, "Here is My Servant, whom I uphold, My Chosen One, in whom My soul delights. I will put My Spirit on Him, and He will bring justice to the nations." This passage highlights the divine selection and anointing of the Messiah, emphasizing His role as the chosen Servant of the Lord. In the New Testament, the election of Christ is affirmed through His fulfillment of these messianic prophecies. The Gospel of Matthew frequently cites Old Testament prophecies to demonstrate that Jesus is the promised Messiah. For instance, Matthew 12:18 echoes Isaiah's prophecy: "Here is My Servant, whom I have chosen, My beloved, in whom My soul delights. I will put My Spirit on Him, and He will proclaim justice to the nations." The Role of Grace The concept of grace is central to understanding the election of Christ as the Messiah. Grace, in this context, refers to the unmerited favor and love of God bestowed upon humanity through Jesus Christ. The Apostle Paul, in his epistles, elaborates on the role of grace in the election of Christ. In Romans 11:5-6 , 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." This passage, while addressing the remnant of Israel, also reflects the broader principle that God's election is based on grace rather than human merit. The election of Christ as the Messiah is the ultimate expression of this grace, as He embodies the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan for all humanity. Christ's Messianic Mission The election of Christ as the Messiah is not merely a theological abstraction but is manifested in His earthly ministry and mission. Jesus Himself acknowledges His divine mission in Luke 4:18-19 , where He reads from the scroll of Isaiah: "The Spirit of the Lord is on Me, because He has anointed Me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent Me to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor." This mission, rooted in His election, is characterized by acts of compassion, healing, and teaching, culminating in His sacrificial death and resurrection. Through these acts, Jesus fulfills the role of the chosen Messiah, bringing salvation and reconciliation between God and humanity. Theological Implications The election of Christ as the Messiah carries significant theological implications for understanding the nature of God's sovereignty and grace. It affirms that God's plan of salvation is initiated and accomplished by His will and purpose. The election of Christ is a testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises and His desire to extend grace to all people through the person of Jesus Christ. Furthermore, the election of Christ serves as a model for understanding the election of believers. Just as Christ was chosen by grace to fulfill His messianic mission, so too are believers chosen by grace to participate in the life and mission of the Church. This understanding calls for a response of faith, gratitude, and obedience to the divine calling. Conclusion The election of grace of Christ as the Messiah is a foundational doctrine that reveals the depth of God's love and the centrality of Jesus in the divine plan of redemption. Through His election, Christ embodies the fulfillment of God's promises and the extension of grace to all who believe. Nave's Topical Index Isaiah 42:1Behold my servant, whom I uphold; my elect, in whom my soul delights; I have put my spirit on him: he shall bring forth judgment to the Gentiles. Nave's Topical Index 1 Peter 2:6 Library Salvation to the Jews Opposition to Messiah in Vain The Remembrance of Christ The Song of the Redeemed Hymns and Spiritual Songs Faustus Denies that the Prophets Predicted Christ. Augustin Proves ... The Lamb of God, the Great Atonement The Gentile Christian Theology. Paul and the Gospel of Faith. The Bible The Canons of Dort. Resources Who are the elect of God? | GotQuestions.orgMonergism vs. synergism-which view is correct? | GotQuestions.org How can I know if I am one of the elect? | 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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