Introduction

The concept of God's choice, often referred to as divine election, is a significant theme throughout the Bible. It encompasses God's sovereign decision-making in selecting individuals, nations, and events to fulfill His divine purposes. This entry explores the biblical basis for God's choice, its implications, and its manifestations in both the Old and New Testaments.

Old Testament Foundations

1. Abraham and the Patriarchs: God's choice is evident in His selection of Abraham to be the father of a great nation. Genesis 12:1-3 records God's call to Abraham: "Go from your country, your people and your father's household to the land I will show you. I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you." This choice was not based on Abraham's merit but on God's sovereign will.

2. Israel as a Chosen Nation: Deuteronomy 7:6-8 highlights Israel's election: "For you are a people holy to the LORD your God. The LORD your God has chosen you out of all the peoples on the face of the earth to be his people, his treasured possession." God's choice of Israel was rooted in His love and the promises made to the patriarchs, not in the nation's size or strength.

3. David as King: God's choice of David as king over Israel is another example of divine election. In 1 Samuel 16:7 , God instructs Samuel, "Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart." David's selection was based on God's knowledge of his heart.

New Testament Developments

1. Jesus Christ: The ultimate expression of God's choice is found in Jesus Christ. In Matthew 12:18 , quoting Isaiah, it is written, "Here is My servant whom I have chosen, My beloved, in whom My soul delights." Jesus is the chosen Messiah, fulfilling God's redemptive plan for humanity.

2. The Apostles: Jesus' choice of the apostles is a continuation of this theme. In John 15:16 , Jesus tells His disciples, "You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit—fruit that will remain." The apostles were chosen to spread the Gospel and establish the early Church.

3. The Church: The New Testament extends the concept of God's choice to the Church. Ephesians 1:4-5 states, "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." Believers are chosen to be part of God's family, reflecting His grace and purpose.

Implications of God's Choice

1. Sovereignty and Grace: God's choice underscores His sovereignty and the unmerited nature of His grace. Romans 9:15-16 emphasizes this: "For He says to Moses: 'I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion.' So then, it does not depend on man's desire or effort, but on God's mercy."

2. Responsibility and Response: While God's choice is sovereign, it does not negate human responsibility. Believers are called to respond in faith and obedience. Philippians 2:12-13 encourages believers to "work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act on behalf of His good purpose."

3. Assurance and Comfort: The doctrine of God's choice provides assurance and comfort to believers. Romans 8:28-30 assures that "in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose." This promise affirms that God's choice is ultimately for the good of His people and His glory.

Conclusion

The theme of God's choice is woven throughout the biblical narrative, revealing His sovereign will and purpose in creation, redemption, and the establishment of His kingdom. It calls believers to trust in His wisdom, respond in faith, and find assurance in His eternal plan.