Topical Encyclopedia The concept of the "Election of Grace" as it pertains to ministers is deeply rooted in the theological understanding of God's sovereign choice and calling. This doctrine emphasizes that God, in His infinite wisdom and mercy, selects individuals for specific roles within His divine plan, particularly in the ministry of the Gospel. This election is not based on human merit or works but solely on God's grace and purpose.Biblical Foundation The Apostle Paul, in his epistle to the Romans, articulates the principle of election by grace: "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" (Romans 11:5-6). This passage underscores that God's selection is an act of grace, independent of human effort or qualification. Divine Calling and Appointment The New Testament provides numerous examples of individuals called by God to serve as ministers. The calling of the Apostle Paul is a prime example. In Galatians 1:15-16, Paul writes, "But when God, who set me apart from my mother’s womb and called me by His grace, was pleased to reveal His Son in me so that I might preach Him among the Gentiles..." . This highlights the divine initiative in appointing ministers, emphasizing that it is God who sets individuals apart for His purposes. Role of the Holy Spirit The role of the Holy Spirit is crucial in the election and empowerment of ministers. In Acts 13:2, the Holy Spirit directs the church at Antioch, saying, "Set apart for Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them" . This divine directive illustrates the Spirit's active role in guiding the church to recognize and affirm those whom God has chosen. Qualifications and Responsibilities While the election of ministers is by grace, Scripture also outlines qualifications and responsibilities for those in ministry. In 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:5-9, Paul provides criteria for overseers and elders, emphasizing character, ability to teach, and a life that reflects the Gospel. These qualifications serve as evidence of God's work in the life of the minister, aligning with the grace that has called them. The Purpose of Election The election of ministers by grace serves the broader purpose of building up the body of Christ and advancing the Gospel. Ephesians 4:11-12 states, "And He gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for works of ministry, to build up the body of Christ" . This passage highlights the diversity of roles within the church, all orchestrated by God's sovereign choice to fulfill His redemptive mission. Human Response and Faithfulness While the election is an act of divine grace, it requires a human response of faithfulness and obedience. Ministers are called to steward their gifts and calling diligently, as Paul exhorts Timothy: "Do not neglect the gift that is in you, which was given to you through prophecy with the laying on of hands by the elders" (1 Timothy 4:14). This charge underscores the responsibility of ministers to cultivate their calling and serve faithfully in the capacity to which they have been elected. In summary, the Election of Grace of Ministers is a profound theological concept that highlights God's sovereign choice in appointing individuals to serve His church. It is an act of grace, independent of human merit, and is accompanied by the empowering presence of the Holy Spirit, guiding and equipping ministers for their divine calling. Nave's Topical Index Luke 6:13And when it was day, he called to him his disciples: and of them he chose twelve, whom also he named apostles; Nave's Topical Index Acts 9:15 Library Calvinistic Methodism. Of the Teachers and Ministers of the Church. Their Election and ... Election The Presbyterian Church in the United States of America. Election. The Brandenburg Confessions. The Song of the Redeemed Thoughts Upon Our Call and Election. Salvation to the Jews Reprobation Asserted: Or, the Doctrine of Eternal Election and ... Resources What is conditional election? | GotQuestions.orgUnconditional election - is it biblical? | GotQuestions.org What is corporate election? | 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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