Topical Encyclopedia The concept of the "Election of Grace" primarily pertains to the divine selection and favor bestowed upon certain individuals or groups, often discussed in the context of human salvation. However, when considering the realm of angelology, the idea can be extended to the "good angels," those celestial beings who remained faithful to God and did not fall with Satan.Biblical Foundation While the Bible does not explicitly use the term "election" in reference to angels, it provides insights into the nature and role of good angels, suggesting a divine favor or selection. In 1 Timothy 5:21, the Apostle Paul refers to "the elect angels," indicating a group of angels distinguished by their steadfastness and loyalty to God. This implies a form of divine election, where these angels were chosen or confirmed in their holy state. Nature and Role of Good Angels Good angels are depicted throughout Scripture as messengers and servants of God, executing His will and ministering to believers. Hebrews 1:14 describes them as "ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation." Their unwavering obedience and service highlight their unique position in the divine order. The election of good angels can be inferred from their continued presence in the heavenly realm and their participation in God's eternal plan. Unlike the fallen angels, who rebelled and were cast out of heaven (Revelation 12:7-9), the good angels remained faithful, suggesting a divine preservation and favor. Theological Implications The election of good angels underscores the sovereignty and wisdom of God in His creation and governance of the spiritual realm. It reflects His ability to maintain order and righteousness among His celestial beings. The steadfastness of the good angels serves as a testament to God's sustaining grace, which enables them to fulfill their roles without falling into sin. Furthermore, the concept of election among angels parallels the election of grace among humans, emphasizing God's initiative and purpose in choosing and preserving His servants. Just as believers are chosen in Christ before the foundation of the world (Ephesians 1:4), the good angels are seen as divinely appointed to their roles, highlighting the continuity of God's redemptive plan across both the spiritual and earthly realms. Conclusion The election of grace concerning good angels, while not explicitly detailed in Scripture, can be discerned through their roles, actions, and the biblical references to their steadfastness. This concept enriches the understanding of God's sovereign grace and the order He maintains in both the heavenly and earthly domains. Nave's Topical Index 1 Timothy 5:21I charge you before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect angels, that you observe these things without preferring one before another, doing nothing by partiality. Nave's Topical Index Library Eleventh Proposition of Arminius Election Ninth Proposition of Arminius Free Grace Free Grace Psalm LXXVIII. Election and Holiness Reprobation Asserted: Or, the Doctrine of Eternal Election and ... Election. Exposition of the Doctrines of Grace 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 |