Topical Encyclopedia The concept of grace as the source of election is a profound theological tenet rooted in the Christian understanding of God's sovereign will and unmerited favor. This doctrine emphasizes that God's choice of individuals for salvation is not based on human merit or works but solely on His grace and purpose.Biblical Foundation The doctrine of election is prominently discussed in the New Testament, particularly in the writings of the Apostle Paul. In Ephesians 1:4-6 , 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, to the praise of His glorious grace, which He has freely given us in the Beloved One." This passage underscores that election is an act of God's love and grace, determined before the creation of the world. Similarly, in Romans 11:5-6 , Paul states, "So too, at the present time there is a remnant chosen by grace. And if it is by grace, then it is no longer by works. Otherwise, grace would no longer be grace." Here, Paul contrasts grace with works, affirming that election is entirely a result of God's gracious choice, not human effort. The Nature of Grace Grace, in the biblical context, is understood as God's unmerited favor towards humanity. It is a gift that cannot be earned or deserved. In the doctrine of election, grace is the initiating and sustaining force. As seen 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 verse highlights that God's calling and election are rooted in His eternal purpose and grace, independent of human actions. The Role of Jesus Christ Central to the doctrine of grace and election is the role of Jesus Christ. Election is realized through Christ's redemptive work. In 2 Thessalonians 2:13 , Paul expresses gratitude, saying, "But we should always thank God for you, brothers who are loved by the Lord, because God has chosen you from the beginning to be saved by the sanctification of the Spirit and by faith in the truth." This passage indicates that election involves the work of the Holy Spirit and faith in Christ, both of which are gifts of grace. Human Response While election is an act of divine grace, it does not negate human responsibility. Believers are called to respond to God's grace through faith and obedience. In Philippians 2:12-13 , Paul exhorts, "Therefore, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence but now even more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God who works in you to will and to act on behalf of His good purpose." This passage illustrates the dynamic relationship between divine grace and human response, where God's enabling grace empowers believers to live out their election. Conclusion The doctrine of grace as the source of election is a testament to God's sovereign and loving initiative in salvation. It affirms that salvation is a gift, rooted in God's eternal purpose and realized through the redemptive work of Christ. This understanding calls believers to a life of gratitude, faith, and obedience, recognizing that their election is a result of God's gracious choice. Torrey's Topical Textbook Romans 11:5Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Sixteenth Sunday after Trinity Paul's Care and Prayer for the ... V. ... John Chapter xv. 17-19. The Canons of Dort. Quietism and Calvinism Saved by Grace; The Perseverance of the Saints Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners: Justification A Bishop's Special Office is to Teach; St. ... Resources Are baptism and communion means of grace? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean to be saved by grace? | GotQuestions.org Irresistible Grace - is it biblical? | GotQuestions.org Grace: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Grace is Described as All-Abundant Grace is Described as All-Sufficient Grace is Described as Exceeding Grace is Described as Glorious Grace is Described as Manifold Grace is Described as Sovereign Grace is the Source of Consolation Grace is the Source of Election Grace is the Source of Forgiveness of Sins Grace is the Source of Justification Grace is the Source of Salvation Grace is the Source of The Call of God Grace of God: General Scriptures Concerning Grace: Beware Lest You Fail of Grace: Foretold by the Prophets Grace: Glory of, Exhibited in Our Acceptance in Christ Grace: God's Throne, the Throne of Grace: God's Work Completed in Saints By Grace: Inheritance of the Promises By Grace: Justification By, Opposed to That by Works Grace: Manifestation of, in Others, a Cause of Gladness Grace: Necessary to the Service of God Grace: Not to be Received in Vain Grace: Pray for for Yourselves Grace: Riches of, Exhibited in God's Kindness Through Christ Grace: Saints are What They are By Grace: Saints: Abound in Gifts of Grace: Saints: Receive, from Christ Grace: Saints: should be Established In Grace: Saints: should be Strong In Grace: Saints: should Speak With Grace: Special Manifestation of, at the Second Coming of Christ Grace: Specially Given: To Ministers Grace: Specially Given: To the Humble Grace: Specially Given: To Those Who Walk Uprightly Grace: The Gospel, a Declaration of Grace: The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of Grace: The Success and Completion of the Work of God to Be Related Terms |
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