Topical Encyclopedia Election, in the context of Christian theology, refers to the divine choice by which God selects certain individuals for salvation. This doctrine, deeply rooted in Scripture, emphasizes God's sovereignty and grace. However, election is not merely a theological concept to be acknowledged; it is a call to action, urging believers to cultivate the graces that reflect their chosen status.The Apostle Peter, in his second epistle, provides a foundational understanding of how election should manifest in the life of a believer. He writes, "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 exhortation underscores the responsibility of believers to actively pursue spiritual growth and moral excellence. Peter outlines a progression of virtues that believers are to develop, beginning with faith and culminating in love. He states, "For this reason, make every effort to add to your faith virtue; and to virtue, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love" (2 Peter 1:5-7). This sequence illustrates the transformative journey that election initiates, leading to a life that mirrors the character of Christ. The Apostle Paul echoes this sentiment in his letter to the Colossians, where he instructs the elect to embody specific virtues: "Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with hearts of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience" (Colossians 3:12). Here, Paul emphasizes that election is not a passive state but an active engagement in cultivating a Christ-like disposition. Moreover, the doctrine of election should inspire humility and gratitude, recognizing that salvation is a gift of grace rather than a result of human merit. Paul reminds the Ephesians, "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" (Ephesians 2:8-9). This understanding should lead believers to a life of service and devotion, reflecting the grace they have received. The cultivation of graces is also a testimony to the world, demonstrating the transformative power of God's election. Jesus, in the Sermon on the Mount, calls His followers to be the light of the world, stating, "Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven" (Matthew 5:16). The visible manifestation of these graces serves as a witness to the reality of God's work in the lives of the elect. In summary, the doctrine of election is not an end in itself but a beginning—a call to cultivate the virtues that reflect one's identity as God's chosen. Through the diligent pursuit of these graces, believers affirm their calling and election, living lives that honor God and bear witness to His transformative power. Torrey's Topical Textbook Colossians 3:12Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, long-suffering; Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Exposition of the Doctrines of Grace The Sluggard's Farm An Analysis of Augustin's Writings against the Donatists. From the Close of the General Conference of 1832 to the Beginning ... The Pilgrim's Progress 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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