Absolute initiator of Salvation.

[SolusChristus]

Greetings, brothers and sisters.

We all know that there is a doctrine of election in the Bible, we hear words such as "the elect", "God's chosen" in the Bible. What is election? Some would say that God chose some people to be saved, from the beginning of the world, but others will go on and say that election is by "foreknowledge".

Now, I ask the question, what is election by foreknowledge? Did God "foreknow" that we're going to believe in Christ and therefor He elected us to salvation, based on our own free will and our own choice?

Or was it that God saw His glory in the salvation of those whom He saved from the beginning, sending Christ so save only them which God has elected, effectively saving them at the time God appointed, by the means He appointed?

What does Scripture say? I'd very much like to hear your responses.

[HardlyExegetic]

Or perhaps the elect does not reference individuals but is instead talking about God's election of his people, known better today as "The Church."

[TristanCross]

Matthew 20:16
(16) So the last shall be first, and the first last: for many be called, but few chosen.

Matthew 22:14
(14) For many are called, but few are chosen.

1 Peter 2:9
(9)But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light;

Revelation 17:14
These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them: for he is Lord of lords, and King of kings: and they that are with him are called, and chosen, and faithful.

[HardlyExegetic]

Matthew 22:14 - This is mentioned in a parable that is talking about an invitation being offered to many people, but not everyone chooses to respond to that invitation. The parable ends referring to an individual who tried to slip into the party without holding to the requirements necessary for entry.

A good way to interpret this is to hold to the doctrine of Unlimited, Limited Atonement. That Christ's death on the cross was an invitation to all but that only those that respond faithfully by God's grace actually receive justification. There will also be those who respond to the invitation but do not do so righteously, trying to "slip through the cracks" so to say. Just as Matthew 7 says. Not everyone who proclaims God's name or do works in his name will find acceptance by God, these are those who are workers of inequity, or lawlessness. This has nothing to do with an individual choosing of unique individuals.

1 Peter 2:9 - This is referring to God’s chosen people. First Abraham, the patriarchs, the nation of Israel, and finally expanding to the church. "The Church" is God's chosen people.

Revelation 17:14 - Another reference to the Christian Church.

You aren't exactly making your point.