The concepts of being "chosen" and "predestined" are deeply rooted in biblical theology, reflecting God's sovereign will and purpose in the salvation and calling of individuals and groups. These terms are often discussed within the context of divine election and God's eternal plan.

Chosen

The term "chosen" refers to the act of God selecting individuals or groups for a specific purpose or destiny. This concept is prevalent throughout the Bible, illustrating God's initiative in establishing a covenant relationship with His people.

In the Old Testament, Israel is frequently described as God's chosen people. Deuteronomy 7:6 states, "For you are a people holy to the LORD your God. The LORD your God has chosen you to be a people for His prized possession, above all peoples on the face of the earth." This selection was not based on Israel's merit but on God's love and faithfulness to His promises.

In the New Testament, the concept of being chosen extends to the Church. Believers in Christ are described as chosen by God for salvation and service. Ephesians 1:4 declares, "For He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless in His presence." This choice is rooted in God's grace and is part of His redemptive plan through Jesus Christ.

Predestined

Predestination refers to God's foreordaining of certain events or outcomes, particularly concerning salvation. It emphasizes God's sovereignty and the assurance that His purposes will be accomplished.

The Apostle Paul addresses predestination in several of his epistles. In Romans 8:29-30 , he writes, "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. And those He predestined, He also called; those He called, He also justified; those He justified, He also glorified." This passage highlights the sequence of God's salvific work, from foreknowledge to glorification, underscoring the certainty of His plan.

Ephesians 1:5 further elaborates, "He predestined us for adoption as His sons through Jesus Christ, according to the good pleasure of His will." Here, predestination is linked to the believer's adoption into God's family, emphasizing the relational aspect of God's sovereign choice.

Theological Implications

The doctrines of being chosen and predestined have significant theological implications, particularly in discussions of free will, grace, and assurance of salvation. These concepts affirm that salvation is initiated by God and is not based on human effort or merit. They also provide believers with confidence in God's unchanging purpose and the security of their salvation.

Throughout church history, these doctrines have been the subject of much debate and interpretation, particularly in the context of Reformed theology and its emphasis on God's sovereignty. However, they remain central to understanding the biblical narrative of redemption and God's overarching plan for humanity.