Election | Bible Study Notes

Expanded explanation

The word election describes a choice, but the word alone does not answer who was chosen, what they were chosen for, or whether the choice concerns salvation, service, identity, or historical purpose. Those questions must be answered from the surrounding passage.

Context

This definition prevents the debate from treating one meaning of election as the definition for every biblical use. It also allows the site to affirm election as a biblical concept while examining the claim that it always means individual selection to believe.

Calvinist Usage

In Calvinist usage, election often refers specifically to God's unconditional choice of particular individuals for salvation before the foundation of the world, with the corresponding non-election of others.

Decalvinised Position

Decalvinised affirms biblical election but rejects the assumption that every reference to election means unconditional individual selection for salvation. Scripture describes God choosing Israel, choosing messengers, extending the covenant blessing to the Gentiles, and determining the destiny of those who are in Christ.