Topical Encyclopedia The doctrine of the election of saints is a profound and significant theme within Christian theology, emphasizing the sovereign choice of God in the salvation of individuals. This concept is rooted in the understanding that God, in His infinite wisdom and grace, has chosen certain individuals for salvation through Jesus Christ. This election is not based on human merit or foreseen faith but is an expression of God's sovereign will and purpose.Biblical Foundation The New Testament provides several key passages that underscore the role of Christ in the election of saints. In the Gospel of John, Jesus Himself speaks of this divine selection: "You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit—fruit that will remain—so that whatever you ask the Father in My name, He will give you" (John 15:16). Here, Jesus emphasizes that the initiative in the relationship between the believer and Himself originates with His choice. The Apostle Paul further elaborates on this doctrine in his epistles. In Ephesians, 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" (Ephesians 1:4-5). This passage highlights that the election of believers is an eternal decision made by God, rooted in His love and purpose, and actualized through Christ. Christ's Role in Election Christ's role in the election of saints is central and multifaceted. As the mediator of the new covenant, Christ is the means through which God's electing purpose is realized. His sacrificial death and resurrection are the foundation upon which the salvation of the elect is secured. In Romans, Paul asserts, "For those God foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brothers" (Romans 8:29). This indicates that the elect are chosen to be transformed into the likeness of Christ, underscoring His pivotal role in their election and sanctification. Moreover, Christ's intercessory work is integral to the security and perseverance of the elect. In the book of Hebrews, it is stated, "Therefore He is able to save completely those who draw near to God through Him, since He always lives to intercede for them" (Hebrews 7:25). Christ's ongoing intercession ensures that the elect are preserved in faith and ultimately brought to glory. The Purpose of Election The election of saints serves a greater divine purpose, which is the glorification of God through the redemption of His people. In 2 Timothy, Paul writes, "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" (2 Timothy 1:9). This passage emphasizes that the election is not an end in itself but is directed towards the manifestation of God's grace and the fulfillment of His redemptive plan through Christ. The doctrine of election, while complex and often debated, ultimately points to the majesty and sovereignty of God in salvation. It assures believers of their secure position in Christ, encouraging them to live lives of holiness and gratitude, knowing that their salvation is rooted in the eternal and unchangeable purpose of God. Torrey's Topical Textbook John 13:18I speak not of you all: I know whom I have chosen: but that the scripture may be fulfilled, He that eats bread with me has lifted up his heel against me. Torrey's Topical Textbook John 15:16 Library Perseverance of the Saints Proved. Election is for the Purpose of Holiness. Election Chrysostom Evades Election to a Bishopric, and Writes his Work on ... Perseverance of Saints. Particular Election The Perseverance of the Saints Hymns and Spiritual Songs Election and Holiness Rejection of Errors 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 |
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