Chosen

 So then it depends not on human will or exertion, but on God, who has mercy.

(Romans 9:16 ESV)

This passage underscores two divine points that often challenge our understanding. Firstly, it highlights God's sovereign choices, which include love, mercy, forgiveness, and wrath. Paul's reference to Jacob and Esau, 'As it is written, ‘Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated,'' serves as a powerful reminder of God's unconditional election, leading us to grapple with the concept of total depravity and limited atonement.

God's choice of His elect, a concept that may initially provoke offense, is firmly rooted in scripture. Paul's teaching is clear; our status as God’s elect is not something we can earn. This divine decision was made before creation, a testament to God's mercy and grace, freely bestowed upon those who place their faith in Christ.

This also points us to total depravity. Paul wrote in 3:23 that “none are good.” We are all sinful people. If we were required to do anything towards our salvation, we would fail. Jesus did not come to earth and say, “Okay, I am here to save you, but I need you to do this…” The finished work of Christ was completed by Christ alone. Which is why we are to have faith in Christ alone.

Today, the masses are bombarded with man-centered preaching. You have to do this or that or this. It is all a lie. We are required to have faith alone, through grace alone, in Christ alone, and in Scripture alone, all for the glory of God alone. Not everyone believes this way and will fight against it.

If you have placed your faith in Christ, it is by the grace of God you were made his elect. Suppose you are reading this because you feel a pull towards Christ, a desire to know more, a longing for something you cannot explain. In that case, it may be the grace of God that pulls you as you are His elect looking through a glass, darkly (1 Cor. 13:12).  God is calling His elect every day, and every day, more come to faith in Christ.

If you do not know Christ, seek him in earnest. Call to Him, and when He knocks at your door; "open the door, and he will come in to eat with you" (Rev. 3:20).

Soli Deo Gloria!