The Event of Choosing is a significant theme throughout the Bible, reflecting the divine sovereignty and human responsibility in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan. This concept is woven into the narrative of Scripture, illustrating how God selects individuals, nations, and even specific moments to fulfill His purposes.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, the Event of Choosing is prominently seen in God's selection of Israel as His 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 divine choice was not based on Israel's merit but on God's love and faithfulness to His covenant with Abraham (Deuteronomy 7:7-8).

The choosing of individuals is also evident in the calling of the patriarchs. Abraham was chosen to be the father of many nations (Genesis 12:1-3), and his descendants, Isaac and Jacob, were selected to carry forward the covenant promises. Jacob, later named Israel, was chosen over his brother Esau, as stated in Malachi 1:2-3 , "I have loved Jacob, but Esau I have hated."

The selection of leaders is another aspect of the Event of Choosing. Moses was chosen to lead the Israelites out of Egypt (Exodus 3:10), and David was chosen as king over Israel, a man after God's own heart (1 Samuel 13:14). The anointing of David is a pivotal moment, as God instructs Samuel, "Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not see as man does. For man sees the outward appearance, but the LORD sees the heart" (1 Samuel 16:7).

New Testament Context

In the New Testament, the Event of Choosing is central to the mission and ministry of Jesus Christ. Jesus chose His twelve apostles to be His closest followers and to carry on His work after His ascension. In John 15:16 , Jesus tells them, "You did not choose Me, but I chose you. And I appointed you to go and bear fruit—fruit that will remain—so that whatever you ask the Father in My name, He will give you."

The apostle Paul expands on the theme of divine election in his epistles, emphasizing God's sovereign choice in salvation. Ephesians 1:4-5 declares, "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."

Paul also addresses the mystery of God's choosing in Romans 9, where he discusses God's sovereign choice in the context of Israel and the Gentiles. Romans 9:15-16 states, "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."

Theological Implications

The Event of Choosing underscores the tension between divine sovereignty and human responsibility. While God chooses according to His will and purpose, humans are called to respond in faith and obedience. This theme challenges believers to trust in God's wisdom and plan, even when it is beyond human understanding.

The doctrine of election, as seen in the Event of Choosing, has been a topic of theological discussion and debate throughout church history. It highlights God's initiative in salvation and His grace extended to humanity, calling believers to live in gratitude and humility.

Practical Application

For believers, the Event of Choosing serves as a reminder of God's grace and purpose in their lives. It encourages them to seek God's will, to live as His chosen people, and to bear witness to His love and truth in the world. As 1 Peter 2:9 affirms, "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."