Topical Encyclopedia Definition and ContextThe doctrine of election refers to the belief that God, in His sovereignty, has chosen certain individuals for salvation before the foundation of the world. This concept is rooted in the understanding of God's omniscience and omnipotence, emphasizing His ultimate authority and grace in the salvation process. The assurance of election is the confidence that believers can have in their status as chosen by God, which is a source of comfort and encouragement in the Christian life. Biblical Foundation The assurance of election is supported by various passages in Scripture that highlight God's sovereign choice and the believer's security in Christ. One of the key texts is found in the Apostle Paul's letter to the Ephesians: "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" (Ephesians 1:4-5). This passage underscores the eternal nature of God's choice and the purpose of election, which is to bring believers into a holy and loving relationship with Him. Assurance Through the Holy Spirit The assurance of election is further affirmed by the work of the Holy Spirit in the life of the believer. The Spirit acts as a seal and guarantee of the believer's inheritance, as stated in Ephesians 1:13-14: "And in Him, having heard and believed the word of truth—the gospel of your salvation—you were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, who is the pledge of our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God's possession, to the praise of His glory" . This sealing by the Holy Spirit provides believers with a profound sense of security and assurance that they are indeed chosen by God. Evidence of Election in the Believer's Life The assurance of election is also evidenced by the transformation and fruitfulness in the life of the believer. The Apostle Peter encourages believers to confirm their calling and election through their conduct: "Therefore, brothers, strive to make your calling and election sure. For if you practice these things, you will never stumble" (2 Peter 1:10). This exhortation implies that a life characterized by growth in virtue and godliness serves as evidence of one's election and provides assurance of salvation. Perseverance and Assurance The doctrine of perseverance, closely related to election, teaches that those whom God has chosen will persevere in faith until the end. Jesus Himself assures His followers of their security in John 10:28-29: "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 the Father's hand" . This promise of eternal security reinforces the assurance that believers can have in their election, knowing that their salvation is secure in the hands of a sovereign and faithful God. Conclusion The assurance of election is a profound and comforting truth for believers, rooted in the eternal purposes of God, the sealing of the Holy Spirit, the evidence of a transformed life, and the promise of perseverance. These elements together provide a robust foundation for the believer's confidence in their status as chosen by God, encouraging them to live faithfully and securely in the knowledge of their salvation. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Thessalonians 1:4Knowing, brothers beloved, your election of God. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Perseverance of Saints. Particular Election Assurance How to Discern Our Title to the Saints' Rest. Concerning Perseverance, and the Possibility of Falling from Grace ... The Perseverance of the Saints The Blessing of Full Assurance The Kingly Priesthood of the Saints Analysis of Arminian Methodism The Confessional Statement of the United Presbyterian Church of ... 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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