Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context In Christian theology, "election" refers to the divine selection of individuals or groups for a specific purpose or destiny, particularly concerning salvation. This concept is rooted in the sovereignty of God, who, according to His will and purpose, chooses those who will come to faith in Christ. The doctrine of election is a profound mystery that underscores God's grace and mercy, emphasizing that salvation is not based on human merit but on God's sovereign choice. Biblical Foundation The doctrine of election is woven throughout Scripture, with key passages highlighting God's sovereign choice. In the Old Testament, God's election of Israel as His chosen people is a foundational theme (Deuteronomy 7:6-8). In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul elaborates on the concept of election in his epistles, particularly in Romans 8:29-30 and Ephesians 1:4-5, where he speaks of believers being predestined according to God's purpose. Evidenced by Diligence While election is an act of God's sovereign will, Scripture also emphasizes the responsibility of believers to live out their faith diligently. The evidence of one's election is often seen in a life characterized by spiritual diligence and growth in godliness. The Apostle Peter exhorts believers to confirm their calling and election through their actions: "Therefore, brothers, strive to make your calling and election sure. For if you practice these things, you will never stumble" (2 Peter 1:10). This passage underscores the importance of actively pursuing a life that reflects one's election through the cultivation of virtues such as faith, goodness, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness, and love (2 Peter 1:5-7). The Role of Diligence in the Christian Life Diligence in the Christian life is not a means to earn salvation but a response to the grace already received. It is the outworking of faith that demonstrates the reality of one's election. The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Philippians, encourages believers to "work out your salvation with fear and trembling" (Philippians 2:12), indicating that the Christian life requires active participation and effort. This diligence is empowered by God's Spirit, who works in believers to will and to act according to His good purpose (Philippians 2:13). Practical Implications The evidence of election through diligence has practical implications for the believer's daily life. It calls for a commitment to spiritual disciplines such as prayer, Bible study, and fellowship with other believers. It also involves a continual striving for holiness and a readiness to serve others in love. The assurance of election should motivate believers to live lives that honor God and reflect His character to the world. Conclusion While the doctrine of election highlights God's sovereign grace, the call to diligence reminds believers of their responsibility to live out their faith actively. This balance between divine sovereignty and human responsibility is a hallmark of the Christian life, encouraging believers to pursue holiness and confirm their calling through a life of faithful obedience. Torrey's Topical Textbook 2 Peter 1:10Why the rather, brothers, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if you do these things, you shall never fall: Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Benefits of an Early Piety John Bunyan on the Terms of Communion and Fellowship of Christians ... From the Close of the General Conference of 1824 to the ... Israel's Hope Encouraged; Memoir of John Bunyan 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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