Topical Encyclopedia The doctrine of the election of saints, particularly the concept that this election is irrespective of human merit, is a profound and often debated topic within Christian theology. This doctrine asserts that God's choice of certain individuals for salvation is based solely on His sovereign will and purpose, rather than any foreseen merit or action on the part of the chosen.Biblical Foundation The concept of election is deeply rooted in Scripture, with numerous passages highlighting God's sovereign choice. In the Old Testament, God's election of Israel as His chosen people serves as a foundational example. Deuteronomy 7:7-8 states, "The LORD did not set His affection on you and choose you because you were more numerous than other peoples, for you were the fewest of all peoples. But it was because the LORD loved you and kept the oath He swore to your fathers." In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul elaborates on the doctrine of election in his epistles. Romans 9:11-13 speaks of God's choice of Jacob over Esau: "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 underscores the principle that God's election is not based on human actions or merits but on His divine purpose. Theological Implications The doctrine of election, particularly as it relates to the idea that it is irrespective of merit, emphasizes the grace and sovereignty of God. Ephesians 1:4-5 declares, "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 inherent worthiness of the individuals chosen. Furthermore, the doctrine of election underscores the concept of grace. As Paul writes in Ephesians 2:8-9 , "For it is by grace you have been saved through faith, and this not from yourselves; it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast." The election of saints is a testament to God's unmerited favor, as salvation is a gift that cannot be earned by human effort. Historical Context and Interpretation Throughout church history, the doctrine of election has been a point of significant theological discussion and debate. The early church fathers, such as Augustine, emphasized the sovereignty of God in salvation, arguing that God's grace is the decisive factor in the election of individuals. During the Reformation, figures like John Calvin further developed the doctrine, asserting that God's election is unconditional and not based on any foreseen faith or merit. This view, often associated with Reformed theology, contrasts with other interpretations that suggest God's election is based on His foreknowledge of who would choose to believe in Christ. However, the emphasis on election being irrespective of merit remains a central tenet for many who hold to a high view of God's sovereignty. Practical Considerations For believers, the doctrine of election can be a source of great comfort and assurance. It affirms that salvation is secure, not because of human effort, but because of God's unchanging purpose and promise. Romans 8:29-30 provides encouragement: "For those God foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son... And those He predestined, He also called; those He called, He also justified; those He justified, He also glorified." The understanding that election is irrespective of merit also fosters humility and gratitude among believers. Recognizing that salvation is entirely a work of God's grace leads to a life of worship and service, as believers respond to God's love with obedience and devotion. Torrey's Topical Textbook Romans 9:11(For the children being not yet born, neither having done any good or evil, that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works, but of him that calls;) Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Election The Universality of Actual Grace V. ... The Life of Cassian. V. ... Augustin's Part in the Controversy. Mr. Bunyan's Last Sermon: 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 |