Election
Hendriksen (New Testament Commentary on 1 Thessalonians 1:4) summarises the teaching of the NT on the doctrine of election:-
- It is from eternity (Eph. 1:4, 5).
- It becomes evident in life (1 Thess. 1:4)…
- It is sovereign and unconditional; that is, it is not conditioned on foreseen works or foreseen faith (1 Cor. 1:27, 28; 4:7; Eph. 1:4; 2:8)…
- It is just (Rom. 9:14, 15).
- It is not limited to Gentiles; in every age a remnant of the Jews is also included (Rom. 11:5).
- It is immutable and effectual; the elect actually reach heaven at last. They obtain salvation (Rom. 11:7). God’s “chain” cannot be broken (Rom. 8:28–30; cf. 11:29; 2 Tim. 2:19).
- It affects life in all its phases, is not abstract. Although election belongs to God’s decree from eternity, it becomes a dynamic force in the hearts and lives of God’s children. That is clearly also the meaning in 1 Thess. 1:4; see verses 5–10. It produces such fruits as adoption as sons, calling, faith, justification, etc. (Rom. 8:28–30, 33; Eph. 1:4, 5; Titus 1:1)…Everyone should read and reread the beautiful description of the truly elect person which is found in Col. 3:12–17.
- It concerns individuals (Rom. 16:13; Phil. 4:3; cf. Acts 9:15).
- It comprehends these individuals “in Christ,” so that they are definitely viewed as one body (Eph. 1:4; 2 Tim. 2:10).
- It is an election not only unto salvation but definitely also (as a link in the chain) unto service (Col. 3:12–17; cf. Acts 9:15, 16).
- It is taught not only by Paul, but also by Jesus himself. See N.T.C. on John 6:39; 10:11, 14, 28; 17:2, 9, 11, 24.
- It has as its final aim God’s glory, and it is the work of his delight (Eph. 1:4–6).