Topical Encyclopedia The doctrine of the election of saints is a profound theological concept rooted in the eternal purposes of God. It refers to God's sovereign choice, made before the foundation of the world, to save certain individuals through faith in Jesus Christ. This election is not based on any foreseen merit or action on the part of the chosen but is solely an act of God's grace and purpose.Biblical Foundation The concept of election is woven throughout the Scriptures, affirming its eternal nature. In Ephesians 1:4-5, the Apostle 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 highlights that God's choice is rooted in His love and sovereign will, established before creation itself. Similarly, 2 Timothy 1:9 states, "He has saved us and called us to a holy calling, not because of our works, but by His own purpose and by the grace He granted us in Christ Jesus before time began." This reinforces the idea that election is not contingent upon human actions but is a divine initiative grounded in grace. God's Sovereignty and Human Responsibility The doctrine of election underscores God's absolute sovereignty in salvation. Romans 9:11-13 illustrates this by recounting the account of Jacob and Esau: "Yet before the twins were born or had done anything good or bad, in order that God’s purpose in election might stand, not by works but by Him who calls, she was told, 'The older will serve the younger.' So it is written: 'Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated.'" This passage emphasizes that God's choice is independent of human deeds, highlighting His sovereign right to choose according to His purpose. While election is a divine prerogative, Scripture also affirms human responsibility. In John 6:37, Jesus declares, "All that the Father gives Me will come to Me, and the one who comes to Me I will never cast out." This indicates that those whom the Father has elected will inevitably come to Christ, yet the invitation to come is extended to all. Eternal Security and Assurance The eternal nature of election provides believers with profound assurance of their salvation. Romans 8:29-30 offers a golden chain of redemption: "For those God foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brothers. And those He predestined, He also called; those He called, He also justified; those He justified, He also glorified." This sequence assures that those whom God has elected will be brought to ultimate glorification, underscoring the security of the believer's salvation. Furthermore, in John 10:28-29, Jesus promises, "I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them out of My hand. My Father who has given them to Me is greater than all. No one can snatch them out of My Father’s hand." This assurance is rooted in the eternal decree of God, providing comfort and confidence to the elect. Conclusion The doctrine of the election of saints, as eternal, is a testament to God's unchanging purpose and grace. It highlights His sovereignty in salvation while affirming the security and assurance of those chosen in Christ. Through this doctrine, believers are called to a deeper understanding of God's love and a greater commitment to live in accordance with His will. Torrey's Topical Textbook Ephesians 1:4According as he has chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Perseverance of the Saints Proved. Reprobation Asserted: Or, the Doctrine of Eternal Election and ... Whether Predestination Can be Furthered by the Prayers of the ... Election Particular Election Perseverance of Saints. Rejection of Errors The Perseverance of the Saints A Treatise on the Predestination of the Saints, Election and Holiness 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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