Introduction

The concept of identity in God's choice is a profound theme woven throughout the biblical narrative. It reflects the divine sovereignty and grace in selecting individuals and groups for specific purposes, roles, and destinies. This theme underscores the belief that identity is not self-determined but is rooted in God's sovereign will and purpose.

Old Testament Foundations

In the Old Testament, God's choice is evident in His selection of individuals and nations to fulfill His divine purposes. The calling of Abraham is a foundational example. God chose Abraham to be the father of a great nation, Israel, through whom all nations would be blessed (Genesis 12:1-3). This choice was not based on Abraham's merit but on God's sovereign will.

The nation of Israel itself is a testament to God's choice. Deuteronomy 7:6-8 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 an act of divine love and faithfulness, not due to Israel's size or strength.

God's choice is also evident in the selection of leaders and prophets. David, the youngest son of Jesse, was chosen by God to be king over Israel, despite his humble beginnings (1 Samuel 16:7-13). Similarly, prophets like Jeremiah were chosen before birth for their roles (Jeremiah 1:5).

New Testament Revelation

In the New Testament, the theme of identity in God's choice is expanded through the person and work of Jesus Christ. Believers are chosen in Christ before the foundation of the world (Ephesians 1:4). This choice is an expression of God's grace and love, calling individuals into a new identity as children of God.

The apostle Peter emphasizes this identity in 1 Peter 2:9 : "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, to proclaim the virtues of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light." This passage highlights the collective identity of believers as a community chosen for God's purposes.

The apostle Paul also speaks of the transformative nature of this divine choice. 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 sequence underscores the process by which God's choice shapes the identity and destiny of believers.

Theological Implications

The doctrine of election, or God's choice, has significant theological implications for understanding identity. It affirms that identity is not a result of human effort or decision but is rooted in God's sovereign will. This understanding provides believers with a sense of security and purpose, knowing that their identity is anchored in God's eternal plan.

Moreover, the concept of identity in God's choice challenges believers to live in accordance with their divine calling. As those chosen by God, believers are called to reflect His character and purposes in the world. This calling involves a commitment to holiness, service, and witness, as outlined in passages like Ephesians 4:1 and Colossians 3:12.

Conclusion

The biblical theme of identity in God's choice reveals a profound truth about the nature of divine sovereignty and grace. From the calling of Abraham to the election of believers in Christ, God's choice shapes the identity and destiny of His people, inviting them to participate in His redemptive purposes for the world.