Divine Selection and Empowerment refer to the biblical concept where God chooses individuals or groups for specific purposes and grants them the necessary power and authority to fulfill His divine will. This theme is prevalent throughout the Scriptures, illustrating God's sovereign will and His active role in human history.

Old Testament Examples

1. Abraham: God's selection of Abraham marks a pivotal moment in biblical history. In Genesis 12:1-3 , God calls Abraham to leave his country and promises to make him a great nation. This divine selection is accompanied by empowerment, as God blesses Abraham and makes him a patriarch of the faith.

2. Moses: Moses is another significant figure chosen by God to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. In Exodus 3:10 , God commands Moses, "So now, go. I am sending you to Pharaoh to bring My people the Israelites out of Egypt." Despite Moses' initial reluctance, God empowers him with signs and wonders, as seen in Exodus 4:1-17 , to accomplish this monumental task.

3. David: The selection of David as king is a profound example of divine choice. In 1 Samuel 16:12-13 , God instructs Samuel to anoint David, saying, "Rise and anoint him, for he is the one." David's empowerment is evident in his victories and leadership, as God’s Spirit comes powerfully upon him from that day forward.

New Testament Examples

1. The Apostles: Jesus' selection of the twelve apostles is a clear instance of divine selection and empowerment. In Mark 3:13-15 , Jesus appoints the twelve "that they might be with Him and that He might send them out to preach and to have authority to drive out demons." This empowerment is further demonstrated at Pentecost when the Holy Spirit descends upon them, enabling them to speak in tongues and perform miracles (Acts 2:1-4).

2. Paul: Formerly known as Saul, Paul’s conversion and subsequent selection as an apostle to the Gentiles is a testament to divine intervention. In Acts 9:15 , the Lord tells Ananias, "Go! This man is My chosen instrument to carry My name before the Gentiles and their kings and before the people of Israel." Paul’s empowerment is evident in his missionary journeys and the epistles he writes, which form a significant portion of the New Testament.

Theological Implications

Divine selection and empowerment underscore God's sovereignty and His ability to use individuals for His purposes, regardless of their background or personal capabilities. This theme highlights the grace of God, as His choices often defy human expectations and societal norms. For instance, God frequently chooses the unlikely or the marginalized, such as David, the youngest son of Jesse, or the apostles, many of whom were fishermen.

Furthermore, empowerment by the Holy Spirit is a critical aspect of divine selection. The Holy Spirit equips and enables individuals to carry out God's work, providing wisdom, strength, and spiritual gifts necessary for ministry. This empowerment is not limited to biblical times but continues in the life of believers today, as seen in passages like 1 Corinthians 12:4-11 , which discusses the distribution of spiritual gifts.

Conclusion

The concept of Divine Selection and Empowerment is a testament to God's active involvement in the world, choosing and equipping individuals to fulfill His divine purposes. This theme is woven throughout the biblical narrative, demonstrating that God's plans are accomplished through His chosen instruments, empowered by His Spirit.