Topical Encyclopedia IntroductionThe concept of election in the Bible refers to God's sovereign choice in selecting individuals or groups for a specific purpose or destiny. Jacob, the son of Isaac and Rebekah, is a central figure in the biblical narrative of election. His account is pivotal in understanding God's sovereign will and the unfolding of His covenant promises. Biblical Narrative Jacob, later named Israel, is one of the patriarchs of the Israelite nation. His account begins in Genesis 25, where he is described as the younger twin brother of Esau. Even before their birth, God revealed to Rebekah that "the older shall serve the younger" (Genesis 25:23). This divine pronouncement set the stage for Jacob's role in God's redemptive plan. Jacob's election is further emphasized in Genesis 27, where he receives the blessing intended for Esau. Through a series of events orchestrated by Rebekah, Jacob deceives his father Isaac and secures the blessing of the firstborn. This act, while controversial, aligns with God's earlier declaration and demonstrates His sovereign choice. Theological Significance Jacob's election is a profound example of God's grace and sovereignty. Despite his flaws and deceptive actions, Jacob is chosen to carry forward the Abrahamic covenant. This choice underscores the biblical theme that God's election is not based on human merit but on His divine purpose and will. The Apostle Paul reflects on Jacob's election in Romans 9:10-13, where he writes, "Yet before the twins were born or had done anything good or bad—in order that God’s purpose in election might stand, not by works but by Him who calls—she was told, 'The older will serve the younger.' So it is written: 'Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated.'" . This passage highlights the doctrine of election as rooted in God's sovereign choice rather than human actions. Covenantal Role Jacob's election is integral to the establishment of the nation of Israel. After wrestling with God and receiving a new name, Israel, Jacob becomes the father of the twelve tribes. His life and descendants fulfill God's promise to Abraham to make him a great nation (Genesis 12:2). Jacob's account also illustrates the continuity of God's covenantal promises. Despite human failings, God's purposes prevail, and His promises to Abraham are realized through Jacob and his descendants. This continuity is a testament to God's faithfulness and the irrevocable nature of His election. Conclusion Jacob's election is a testament to God's sovereign will and the unfolding of His redemptive plan. Through Jacob, God demonstrates that His purposes are accomplished not through human merit but through His divine choice and grace. The narrative of Jacob serves as a foundational element in understanding the biblical doctrine of election and God's covenantal faithfulness. Torrey's Topical Textbook Romans 9:12,13It was said to her, The elder shall serve the younger. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Of the Eternal Election, by which God Has Predestinated Some to ... Jacob and Esau Ninth Proposition of Arminius The Blessing of Jacob Upon Judah. (Gen. Xlix. 8-10. ) Argument from the Prayer of Joseph, to Show that the Baptist May ... Chrysostom Evades Election to a Bishopric, and Writes his Work on ... The Good Pleasure of God is the Sole Cause of this Gracious ... Divine Election and Reprobation This Doctrine Confirmed by Proofs from Scripture. The Dispensation of the Divine Favours Reconciled with the ... 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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