Topical Encyclopedia The concept of "election" in the context of churches refers to the divine selection and calling of a community of believers to fulfill God's purposes. This theological theme is rooted in the broader biblical doctrine of election, which pertains to God's sovereign choice in salvation and His unfolding plan for humanity. The election of churches emphasizes the collective aspect of God's calling, highlighting the role of the church as a chosen body to manifest His will on earth.Biblical Foundation The New Testament provides several references to the election of churches, underscoring their role as God's chosen people. In 1 Peter 2:9 , the apostle Peter writes, "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, to proclaim the virtues of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light." This passage highlights the collective identity of the church as a community set apart for God's purposes. Similarly, the apostle Paul addresses the church in Thessalonica, affirming their election by God. In 1 Thessalonians 1:4 , he states, "Brothers and sisters beloved by God, we know that He has chosen you." This acknowledgment of divine election serves as an encouragement and a reminder of their special status and responsibility as a church. Purpose and Function The election of churches is intrinsically linked to their mission and function within the world. As the body of Christ, the church is called to be a witness to the gospel, to make disciples, and to serve as a light in a world often characterized by darkness. The church's election is not merely a privilege but a call to active participation in God's redemptive work. Ephesians 1:4-5 further elaborates on this purpose: "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." The church is thus called to reflect God's holiness and love, living out its identity as His adopted children. Corporate Identity and Unity The election of churches also emphasizes the unity and corporate identity of believers. In 1 Corinthians 12:12-13 , Paul uses the metaphor of the body to describe the church: "The body is a unit, though it is comprised of many parts. And although its parts are many, they all form one body. So it is with Christ. For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body, whether Jews or Greeks, slave or free, and we were all given one Spirit to drink." This unity is a testament to the church's election, as diverse individuals are brought together to form a single, cohesive entity. The church's election is thus a call to maintain unity and to work together in harmony, reflecting the oneness of the Spirit. Challenges and Responsibilities While the election of churches is a source of encouragement, it also presents challenges and responsibilities. The church is called to remain faithful to its mission, to uphold sound doctrine, and to resist the pressures of the world that may lead it astray. Revelation 2-3 contains letters to seven churches, each addressing specific issues and calling them to repentance and perseverance. The election of churches, therefore, involves a continuous process of self-examination and renewal, ensuring that the church remains aligned with God's purposes and faithful to its calling. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Peter 5:13The church that is at Babylon, elected together with you, salutes you; and so does Marcus my son. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Election and Ordination of Bishops: Form of Service on Sundays. Death of Paul Bishop of the Novatians, and Election of Marcian as ... The Doctrinal Position of the Anglican Church and Her Relation to ... Of the Teachers and Ministers of the Church. Their Election and ... The Lambeth Conference and the Union of Churches in South India. ... Chrysostom Evades Election to a Bishopric, and Writes his Work on ... The Emperor Gratian Recalls the Orthodox Bishops, and Expels the ... Alexander, Bishop of Constantinople, when at the Point of Death ... A Solemn Warning for all Churches Election 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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