Theology Terms Explained: “Election”
In this series on the blog, we’re providing sound doctrine for everyday people by providing you with clear and simple definitions that will strengthen your theological foundation. Each article covers 4 categories including:
The Term – We lay out how it’s pronounced.
The Definition – We provide the Merriam-Webster definition and an everyday version.
The Biblical Connection – We show you where the term connects with Scripture.
Used in an Everyday Conversation – We use it in a basic conversation.
The Term
e·lec·tion | \ i-ˈlek-shən \
The Definition
Merriam-Webster: The act of choosing.
FTG’s Expanded Explanation:
Election is the biblical doctrine that God, according to His sovereign will and grace, chose sinners for salvation in Christ before the foundation of the world. This choice was not based on foreseen merit, faith, or works, but solely on God’s purpose and mercy.
Election does not remove human responsibility or the call to repent and believe. Instead, it explains why anyone is saved at all. Far from producing pride, the doctrine of election humbles believers, fuels gratitude, and provides deep assurance because our salvation rests on God’s unchanging purpose, not our fluctuating performance.
The Biblical Connection
Ephesians 1:3–5 — “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ, just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we would be holy and blameless before Him. In love He predestined us to adoption as sons through Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the kind intention of His will…”
Romans 9:15–16 — “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 the man who wills or the man who runs, but on God who has mercy.”
John 6:37 — “All that the Father gives Me will come to Me, and the one who comes to Me I will certainly not cast out.”
Acts 13:48 — “When the Gentiles heard this, they began rejoicing and glorifying the word of the Lord; and as many as had been appointed to eternal life believed.”
From beginning to end, Scripture presents salvation as the result of God’s gracious initiative, ensuring that all glory belongs to Him alone.
Used in an Everyday Conversation
“Election reminds me that my salvation rests on God’s grace, not my consistency.”
“If God didn’t choose us first, none of us would choose Him.”
“This doctrine doesn’t discourage evangelism, it explains why evangelism works.”
“Election humbles us because it leaves no room for boasting.”
“We don’t know who the elect will be so we are called to evangelize everyone!”
