Divine Election
Divine Election9
Minutius Felix
By John Gill0ROM 9:14EPH 1:4John Gill discusses the dialogue of Minutius Felix, emphasizing the early Christian understanding of predestination and the concept of election. He highlights the objections raised by Caecilius, a heathen, regarding the perceived injustice of God in punishing individuals based on fate rather than free will. Gill explains that the early Christians believed in a doctrine of predestination that aligned with God's foreknowledge and grace, asserting that conversion to Christianity was not by free will but through divine election. He also addresses the historical context of these beliefs and their implications for understanding God's justice and mercy. Ultimately, Gill defends the notion that God's decrees are just and rooted in His omniscience.
"Behold My Servant"
By T. Austin-Sparks0ISA 42:1T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the prophetic significance of Jesus as the ultimate servant of God, fulfilling the role that Israel failed to complete. He explains that the Church, as the Body of Christ, inherits this calling to serve and bring forth justice to the nations. Sparks highlights the sovereignty of God in choosing individuals for His purpose, using Paul, Peter, and John as examples of how God forms and equips His servants. He stresses that true service is rooted in love and spirituality, which are essential for the Church's mission. Ultimately, the sermon calls believers to recognize their divine election and the high calling of serving God in the world.
Four Results of Heart Faith in Divine Election
By Rolfe Barnard3847:15GAL 1:6Rolfe Barnard emphasizes the profound impact of heart faith in divine election, illustrating how true understanding of God's grace leads to a transformative experience rather than mere doctrinal knowledge. He critiques the complacency of modern churchgoers who mistake privilege for responsibility, urging believers to recognize the necessity of a personal encounter with Christ for genuine salvation. Barnard draws on the Apostle Paul's conversion as a model of how divine election should inspire boldness, amazement, and a passion for evangelism, rather than harshness or self-righteousness. He warns against the dangers of intellectualism in faith, advocating for a heartfelt relationship with God that compels believers to share the gospel with others. Ultimately, Barnard calls for a return to the awe and wonder of God's grace that should characterize every Christian's life.
1 Peter 1:2
By John Gill0EXO 12:22EXO 24:8PSA 1:6ROM 8:30ROM 11:1EPH 2:102TH 2:131PE 1:2John Gill expounds on 1 Peter 1:2, emphasizing the concept of divine election according to God's foreknowledge. He clarifies that this election is not based on any merit or action of individuals but is rooted in God's sovereign grace and love. Gill explains that the chosen are sanctified by the Spirit and called to obedience through faith in Jesus Christ, highlighting the significance of Christ's blood for justification and cleansing. He concludes with a prayer for grace and peace to be multiplied among the believers, reflecting the abundance of God's blessings.
Gospel Preaching Commanded
By A.W. Pink0MAT 28:19MRK 16:15LUK 14:23JHN 6:44ACT 1:8ROM 10:141CO 1:21EPH 2:11TH 2:42TI 4:2A.W. Pink emphasizes the necessity of gospel preaching, countering the misconception that God's election excludes certain individuals from salvation. He argues that while God has prepared a feast, it is humanity's natural inclination to resist coming to Him, necessitating divine intervention to compel them to accept His grace. Pink asserts that the power of the gospel lies not in human ability but in God's authority, which enables the dead in sin to respond to His call. He stresses the responsibility of Christians to actively share the gospel with all, as it is through this preaching that God's elect are called. Ultimately, he calls for a serious commitment to evangelism, urging believers to start in their own communities.
(Genesis) 22 - the Call of Abram; or Election, Effectual Calling
By S. Lewis Johnson1.6K55:40GEN 12:1S. Lewis Johnson explores the significance of Abram's call in Genesis, emphasizing the themes of divine election and effectual calling. He highlights Abram's background in Ur of the Chaldees, where he and his family worshipped other gods, illustrating the transformative power of God's call. Johnson asserts that Abram's obedience exemplifies the faith that justifies believers, as seen in the New Testament, and underscores the unconditional nature of God's election. He encourages believers to recognize their own call to discipleship and the assurance of perseverance in faith, drawing parallels between Abram's journey and the Christian experience. The sermon concludes with a call to rejoice in the grace of God that leads to salvation.
Electing Love
By Robert Murray M'Cheyne0MAL 1:2MAT 11:25LUK 7:47JHN 15:16ROM 8:30ROM 9:151CO 1:26EPH 1:42TH 2:13JAS 2:5Robert Murray M'Cheyne emphasizes the humbling yet comforting truth that it is God who chooses us, not the other way around. He explains that our natural inclination is to reject Christ due to our hardened hearts and blindness, but it is through God's grace that we are awakened to choose Him. M'Cheyne highlights that Christ's choice of us is rooted in His love and mercy, which existed before the foundation of the world, and that this divine selection is not based on our merit but solely on His will. He encourages believers to recognize their election as a call to holiness and fruitfulness in their lives, reminding them that true discipleship involves a response to God's choosing. Ultimately, M'Cheyne reassures that God's mercy is available to all, regardless of their past, and urges listeners to embrace this profound truth.
David as a Youth (1 Samuel 16, 17)
By A.W. Pink01SA 16:1PSA 132:1ISA 11:1JER 23:5MAT 25:211CO 1:27TIT 1:1REV 22:16A.W. Pink emphasizes the significance of David's youth in God's redemptive plan, illustrating how David was chosen by God as a king despite being the least likely candidate. This selection highlights God's preference for the humble and the overlooked, as seen in David's shepherding role and his faith in God when facing challenges like Goliath. Pink draws parallels between David's life and the coming of Christ, noting that David serves as a type of the Messiah, embodying qualities that reflect God's heart. The sermon encourages believers to recognize God's sovereign grace and the importance of faithfulness in their own lives, regardless of their circumstances. Ultimately, David's story is a testament to God's ability to use the seemingly insignificant for His glorious purposes.
Election
By Andrew Murray0JHN 15:16EPH 1:4Andrew Murray emphasizes the profound truth of divine election in his sermon 'Election,' explaining that our choice to follow Christ is a response to His prior choice of us. He illustrates this with the metaphor of the vine and branches, asserting that just as branches do not choose the vine, we do not choose Christ without His initiating grace. Murray highlights that our election is not merely a theological concept but a source of assurance and purpose, enabling us to bear fruit and pray effectively. He encourages believers to embrace their identity as chosen branches, relying on Christ for strength and fulfillment of their divine purpose. Ultimately, he calls for a deep understanding of what it means to be chosen by God, leading to humility and dependence on Him.