Topical Encyclopedia The concept of the election of Christ as the Messiah is a foundational tenet in Christian theology, emphasizing the divine selection and anointing of Jesus as the Savior and Redeemer of humanity. This election is rooted in the eternal purposes of God and is revealed progressively throughout the Scriptures.Old Testament Foundations The anticipation of a Messiah, an "Anointed One," is deeply embedded in the Old Testament. The prophetic literature, particularly, is replete with references to a coming deliverer. Isaiah 42:1 speaks of the Servant of the Lord: "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 election and empowerment of the Messiah, chosen to fulfill God's redemptive plan. The Davidic Covenant further underscores this election, as seen in 2 Samuel 7:12-16, where God promises David that his throne will be established forever through his offspring. This covenantal promise is understood as a messianic prophecy, pointing to Jesus as the rightful heir to David's throne, chosen to reign eternally. New Testament Fulfillment The New Testament presents Jesus as the fulfillment of these messianic prophecies, affirming His election as the Messiah. In the Gospel of Matthew, the genealogy of Jesus (Matthew 1:1-17) traces His lineage back to David, underscoring His rightful claim to the messianic title. The angelic announcement to Mary in Luke 1:31-33 further affirms this: "You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to give Him the name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David." At His baptism, the divine election of Jesus is publicly affirmed. Matthew 3:16-17 records, "As soon as Jesus was baptized, He went up out of the water. Suddenly the heavens were opened, and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and resting on Him. And a voice from heaven said, 'This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.'" This event marks the divine endorsement of Jesus' messianic mission. Apostolic Witness The apostolic writings further elucidate the election of Christ as the Messiah. Peter, in his sermon at Pentecost, declares Jesus as the fulfillment of Davidic prophecy, stating in Acts 2:36 , "Therefore let all Israel know with certainty that God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ." The term "Christ" (Greek: Christos) is synonymous with "Messiah" (Hebrew: Mashiach), indicating Jesus' anointed role. Pauline theology also emphasizes the preordained role of Christ. In Ephesians 1:4-5 , Paul writes, "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." This passage reflects the eternal election of Christ as the means through which God's redemptive purposes are realized. Conclusion The election of Christ as the Messiah is a central theme that weaves through the biblical narrative, affirming Jesus as the divinely chosen Savior. This election is not merely a historical event but a cosmic reality that underpins the Christian faith, revealing the depth of God's love and the fulfillment of His promises through Jesus Christ. Torrey's Topical Textbook 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. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Peter 2:6 Library Ambassadors for Christ Salvation to the Jews Messianic Discussion with John the Baptist. Christ's Pastoral Prayer for his People Christ Our Passover The Progress of the Gospel from the Death of Christ to the Death ... Opposition to Messiah in Vain The Canons of Dort. Found by Jesus, and Finding Jesus The Voice of the Blood of Christ 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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