Topical Encyclopedia The concept of the "Election of Saints" refers to the divine selection of individuals for salvation and sanctification, a theme deeply rooted in biblical theology. This doctrine emphasizes God's sovereign choice and grace in the salvation process, underscoring that it is not by human effort but by divine will that believers are chosen.Biblical Foundation The doctrine of election is prominently featured in the New Testament. 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 the pre-temporal nature of God's choice, indicating that the election is part of His eternal plan. Romans 8:29-30 further elaborates, "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." Here, the Apostle Paul outlines a sequence of divine actions that begin with foreknowledge and culminate in glorification, emphasizing the certainty and completeness of God's salvific work. Theological Implications The election of saints underscores the grace of God, as it is not based on human merit or works but solely on His mercy and purpose. This is echoed in 2 Timothy 1:9 : "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 doctrine also provides assurance to believers, as it affirms that their salvation is secure in God's unchanging will. John 10:28-29 assures, "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." Election and Spiritual Warfare The election of saints is intrinsically linked to the concept of spiritual warfare. Believers, as the elect of God, are called to engage in spiritual battles against the forces of darkness. Ephesians 6:12 reminds us, "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this world’s darkness, and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." The assurance of election empowers believers to stand firm in spiritual warfare, knowing that their victory is secured in Christ. Romans 8:37 declares, "No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us." The elect are equipped with the armor of God (Ephesians 6:13-17) to withstand the enemy's attacks, highlighting the active role they play in the spiritual realm. Practical Application Understanding the election of saints encourages believers to live lives worthy of their calling, as seen in 2 Peter 1:10 : "Therefore, brothers, strive to make your calling and election sure. For if you practice these things, you will never stumble." This exhortation calls for a response of holiness and diligence in the Christian walk, reflecting the transformative power of God's choosing. Moreover, the doctrine of election fosters humility and gratitude, recognizing that salvation is a gift from God. It also inspires evangelism, as believers are called to proclaim the gospel, trusting that God will draw His elect to Himself through their witness. Torrey's Topical Textbook 2 Timothy 2:4No man that wars entangles himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who has chosen him to be a soldier. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Indexes and Tables Hymns and Spiritual Songs An Index to Find any Hymn by the Title or Contents of It. The Psalms and Hymns of Isaac Watts The Kingly Priesthood of the Saints Spiritual Peace Aron, Brother of Moses, 486, 487. "Be Ye Therefore Sober, and Watch unto Prayer. " The Church of the Middle Ages The Treatise 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 |
    |