Introduction

The concepts of God's choice and promise are central themes throughout the Bible, reflecting His sovereign will and the assurance of His faithfulness. These themes are woven into the narrative of Scripture, illustrating God's plan for humanity and His commitment to His people.

God's Choice

God's choice, often referred to as divine election, is the act of God selecting individuals or groups for a specific purpose or destiny. This choice is rooted in His sovereign will and is not based on human merit or actions. The Bible provides numerous examples of God's choice:

1. Abraham: God chose Abraham to be the father of a great nation. In Genesis 12:1-3 , God calls Abraham, saying, "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; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing."

2. Israel: The nation of Israel was chosen by God to be His special people. Deuteronomy 7:6 states, "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."

3. David: God chose David to be king over Israel. In 1 Samuel 16:12-13 , God instructs Samuel to anoint David, saying, "Rise and anoint him; this is the one."

4. The Church: In the New Testament, God's choice extends to the Church. Ephesians 1:4 declares, "For He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless in His presence."

God's Promise

God's promises are declarations of His intention to act or fulfill a particular purpose. These promises are trustworthy and reflect His unchanging nature. Key promises in the Bible include:

1. The Promise to Abraham: God's promise to Abraham included land, descendants, and blessing. Genesis 15:5-6 records, "He took him outside and said, 'Look up at the sky and count the stars—if indeed you can count them.' Then He said to him, 'So shall your offspring be.' Abram believed the LORD, and He credited it to him as righteousness."

2. The Promise of a Savior: Throughout the Old Testament, God promised a Messiah who would redeem His people. Isaiah 9:6 prophesies, "For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, and the government will be upon His shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."

3. The New Covenant: God promised a new covenant through the prophet Jeremiah. Jeremiah 31:31-33 states, "The days are coming, declares the LORD, when I will make a new covenant with the people of Israel and with the people of Judah... I will put my law in their minds and write it on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people."

4. The Promise of Eternal Life: In the New Testament, God promises eternal life to those who believe in Jesus Christ. John 3:16 affirms, "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that everyone who believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life."

Conclusion

The themes of God's choice and promise underscore His sovereignty and faithfulness. Through His choices, God reveals His purposes, and through His promises, He assures His people of His unwavering commitment. These themes invite believers to trust in God's plan and rely on His faithfulness throughout their lives.