Topical Encyclopedia The doctrine of the election of saints is a profound theological concept rooted in the sovereignty and grace of God. It refers to God's choosing of certain individuals for salvation before the foundation of the world. This election is not based on human merit or foreseen faith but solely on God's will and purpose.Biblical Foundation The concept of election is woven throughout Scripture, emphasizing God's initiative in the salvation process. 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, not in any action or decision on the part of the individual. Similarly, in Romans 8:29-30, Paul elaborates on the process of election, stating, "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 sequence of foreknowledge, predestination, calling, justification, and glorification underscores the divine initiative in salvation. God's Sovereignty and Human Responsibility While the doctrine of election emphasizes God's sovereignty, it does not negate human responsibility. Scripture maintains a tension between divine election and human response. In John 6:44, Jesus declares, "No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him, and I will raise him up at the last day." This indicates that while God draws individuals to Himself, there is also an expectation of response to His call. Moreover, 2 Peter 1:10 exhorts believers, "Therefore, brothers, strive to make your calling and election sure. For if you practice these things, you will never stumble." This suggests that while election is of God, believers are encouraged to live in a manner that reflects their calling. Purpose of Election The purpose of election is ultimately the glory of God and the manifestation of His grace. In Romans 9:22-24, Paul explains, "What if God, intending to show His wrath and make His power known, bore with great patience the objects of His wrath prepared for destruction? What if He did this to make the riches of His glory known to the objects of His mercy, whom He prepared in advance for glory—us, whom He has called, not only from the Jews but also from the Gentiles?" This passage reveals that God's election serves to display His mercy and grace to the world. Furthermore, election is intended to produce holiness and good works in the lives of believers. Ephesians 2:10 states, "For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance as our way of life." The elect are called to live out their faith through actions that reflect God's character and purposes. Conclusion The election of saints is a divine mystery that underscores God's sovereignty and grace. It is a doctrine that calls believers to humility, gratitude, and a life of holiness, recognizing that their salvation is entirely a work of God. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Thessalonians 1:4Knowing, brothers beloved, your election of God. Torrey's Topical Textbook Titus 1:1 Library Perseverance of the Saints Proved. Perseverance of Saints. Election A Treatise on the Predestination of the Saints, Concerning God's Purpose Election and Holiness The Perseverance of the Saints Whether Predestination Can be Furthered by the Prayers of the ... It is in the Power of Evil Men to Sin; but to do this or that by ... The Canons of Dort. 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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