How and why is one chosen by God? Here are some thoughts found by searching the New Testament with a concordance that lists words and where they are found.

Saul is one of the dramatic figures in the New Testament. In Acts chapter 9 verse 15 are these words “…he is an instrument whom I have chosen.” This made me think of an orchestra which requires many players, with some offering solos at various times, but with the majority accompanying and magnifying the composer’s work. Saul, whose Greek name was Paul, writes to the struggling church at Thessalonica in his second letter, second chapter verses 13 through 17 about why they were chosen. He says they are ” beloved by the Lord, chosen for salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and through belief in the truth. God called you for the this purpose by our proclamation of the good news so that you may obtain the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. So stand firm and hold fast the traditions you were taught by us, by word-of-mouth or letter. Now may our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father who loved us and through grace gave us eternal comfort and good hope, comfort your hearts and strengthen them in every good work and word.” They were chosen through their belief in the truth after hearing the good news about Jesus, his resurrection, and the hope of life forever for all who believe.

Paul thought certain groups of people were more likely to believe and be chosen. I Corinthians 1:27-31 — those who are foolish, or weak or low and despised were chosen so that no one could boast of themselves. In Ephesians 1:4 he writes that they were “chosen before the foundation of the world to be his (God’s) sons through Jesus Christ.” And James, Jesus brother, says ” God has chosen those who are poor in the world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom that he has promised to those who love him, ” James 2:5.

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And keep exploring how and why God choses people–maybe even you

Come unto me and I will give you rest.