Topical Encyclopedia The concept of the "Election of Saints" refers to the divine selection and predestination of certain individuals to eternal life and salvation. This doctrine is deeply rooted in the sovereignty of God, emphasizing His ultimate authority and purpose in the salvation of humanity. The notion that the election of saints is "recorded in heaven" underscores the eternal and unchangeable nature of God's decree.Biblical Foundation The idea that the names of the elect are recorded in heaven is supported by several passages in Scripture. In the Gospel of Luke, Jesus tells His disciples, "Nevertheless, do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven" (Luke 10:20). This statement highlights the assurance and security of the believer's salvation, as it is inscribed in the heavenly records. The Apostle Paul, in his epistle to the Philippians, also alludes to this heavenly record: "Yes, and I ask you, my true partner, to help these women, since they have contended at my side for the cause of the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life" (Philippians 4:3). The "book of life" is a metaphorical expression indicating the divine ledger where the names of the elect are inscribed. Theological Implications The doctrine of election is closely associated with God's foreknowledge and predestination. In Ephesians, Paul writes, "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" (Ephesians 1:4-5). This passage emphasizes that the election is an act of God's love and sovereign will, established before the creation of the world. The recording of the elect's names in heaven signifies the certainty and permanence of their salvation. It reflects the biblical teaching that salvation is not based on human merit but on God's gracious choice. As Paul asserts in Romans, "So then, it does not depend on man's desire or effort, but on God's mercy" (Romans 9:16). Assurance and Comfort For believers, the knowledge that their election is recorded in heaven provides profound assurance and comfort. It assures them of their secure position in Christ and the unchanging nature of God's promises. The writer of Hebrews encourages believers with these words: "But you have come to Mount Zion, to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem. You have come to myriads of angels in joyful assembly, to the congregation of the firstborn, enrolled in heaven" (Hebrews 12:22-23). This imagery of the heavenly city and the assembly of the elect serves as a reminder of the eternal inheritance awaiting those whose names are written in heaven. Practical Outworking The doctrine of election, while emphasizing God's sovereignty, also calls believers to live lives worthy of their calling. Peter exhorts the church, "Therefore, brothers, strive to make your calling and election sure. For if you practice these things, you will never stumble" (2 Peter 1:10). This call to diligence and holiness reflects the transformative impact of understanding one's election and the responsibility it entails. In summary, the election of saints as recorded in heaven is a profound biblical truth that underscores God's sovereign grace, provides assurance to believers, and calls them to live in a manner that reflects their divine calling. Torrey's Topical Textbook Luke 10:20Notwithstanding in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject to you; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Perseverance of Saints. Thoughts Upon Our Call and Election. The Second Helvetic Confession, AD 1566. On the Feast of the Apostles Peter and Paul (June 29). The Judgment. The Saints' Privilege and Profit; The Universal Presence Christ, the Believer's Wisdom, Righteousness, Sanctification and ... What is It? The Psalms and Hymns of Isaac Watts Resources Who are the elect of God? | GotQuestions.orgMonergism vs. synergism-which view is correct? | GotQuestions.org How can I know if I am one of the elect? | GotQuestions.org Election: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Election of Christ, As Messiah Election of Grace of Christ As Messiah Election of Grace of Good Angels Election of Grace of Ministers Election of Saints, Is by Christ Election of Saints, Is for the Glory of God Election of Saints, Is in Christ Election of Saints, Is of Grace Election of Saints, Is: According to the Foreknowledge of God Election of Saints, Is: According to the Purpose of God Election of Saints, Is: Eternal Election of Saints, Is: Irrespective of Merit Election of Saints, Is: Personal Election of Saints, Is: Recorded in Heaven Election of Saints, Is: Sovereign Election of Saints, Is: Through Faith Election of Saints, Is: Through Sanctification of the Spirit Election of Saints, Is: To Adoption Election of Saints, Is: To Conformity With Christ Election of Saints, Is: To Eternal Glory Election of Saints, Is: To Good Works Election of Saints, Is: To Salvation Election of Saints, Is: To Spiritual Warfare Election: Ensures to Saints: Acceptance With God Election: Ensures to Saints: Belief in Christ Election: Ensures to Saints: Blessedness Election: Ensures to Saints: Divine Teaching Election: Ensures to Saints: Effectual Calling Election: Ensures to Saints: Protection Election: Ensures to Saints: The Inheritance Election: Ensures to Saints: Vindication of Their Wrongs Election: Ensures to Saints: Working of all Things for Good Election: Saints May Have Assurance of Election: should be Evidenced by Diligence Election: should Lead to Cultivation of Graces Related Terms |
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