6/11/13 The Election of the Church

22 “If those days had not been cut short, no one would survive, but for the sake of the electthose days will be shortened. 23 At that time if anyone says to you, ‘Look, here is the Messiah!’ or, ‘There he is!’ do not believe it. 24 For false messiahs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect (Matthew 24:22-24)

Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ,

To God’s elect, exiles scattered throughout the provinces of Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia and Bithynia, (1 Peter 1:1)

Thoughts: The Church is both visible (what we see in external buildings and people) and invisible.  In the passages above Jesus refers to believers as "the elect."  Peter writes to the Church in different areas referring to them as "God's elect."
    The idea of election is seen first in God choosing Israel as a holy nation.  David and his line were chosen to be kings.  The Church is called a "chosen people a royal priesthood" (1 Peter 2:9).  Election is not something we deserve.  In fact, none of us deserve to be chosen- we deserve to face punishment for our sins. We value our freedom to choose- a spouse, a friend, a job.  We should also value God's sovereign right to choose a spiritual bride for Himself (the Church is often described as God's chosen "bride").  The Spirit effectually calls us away from death, calling us into life- into belief.  This place of belief is the place called the Church.  As the song ("The Church's One Foundation") says, "Elect from every nation yet one o'er all the earth."  

Prayer: Lord, you have chosen your people, not because of any good in them but all by your grace.  So I praise you for your grace.  

(While "The Bachelor" offers a rose- making his choice- there are some who refuse.  Just as there are some who refuse God's offer.  God calls to everyone- but not everyone responds.  God effectually calls to His elected bride- the real, yet invisible Church).