Topical Encyclopedia The doctrine of the election of saints is a profound and intricate aspect of Christian theology, emphasizing God's sovereign choice in the salvation of individuals. This election is not merely for salvation but also for a life characterized by good works, which are the fruit and evidence of genuine faith.Biblical Foundation The concept of election is rooted in various passages throughout Scripture. Ephesians 1:4-5 states, "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 election is purposeful, aiming for holiness and blamelessness, which manifest in good works. Similarly, Ephesians 2:10 affirms, "For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance as our way of life." Here, the apostle Paul underscores that believers are crafted by God for the express purpose of performing good works, which are preordained by God. Theological Implications The election to good works is not a result of human merit but is entirely an act of divine grace. Titus 3:5 clarifies, "He saved us, not by the righteous deeds we had done, but according to His mercy, through the washing of new birth and renewal by the Holy Spirit." This reinforces that salvation and the subsequent call to good works are initiated by God's mercy and grace, not by human effort. Role of Good Works Good works serve as a testament to the transformative power of God's election. James 2:17 states, "So too, faith by itself, if it does not result in action, is dead." This indicates that genuine faith, which is a product of divine election, naturally results in good works. These works are not the basis of salvation but are the evidence of a living and active faith. Practical Outworking The election to good works calls believers to live lives that reflect the character of Christ. Colossians 3:12 exhorts, "Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with hearts of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience." This passage encourages the elect to embody virtues that are consistent with their calling and election. Conclusion While the doctrine of election is often associated with debates over predestination and free will, its practical outworking is clear: those who are elected by God are called to a life of good works. These works are not the cause of salvation but the evidence of it, demonstrating the believer's transformation and commitment to living out the purposes for which they were chosen. Torrey's Topical Textbook Ephesians 2:10For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to good works, which God has before ordained that we should walk in them. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Whether Predestination Can be Furthered by the Prayers of the ... Election The Perseverance of the Saints Particular Election Augustin Confesses that He had Formerly Been in Error Concerning ... Good Works Concerning God's Purpose The Good Shepherd: a Farewell Sermon The Canons of Dort. Now Follows the Practice of Piety in Dying for the Lord. Resources What is conditional election? | GotQuestions.orgUnconditional election - is it biblical? | GotQuestions.org What is corporate election? | 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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