Election

1 Peter 1:1–2

1 Peter’s first letter talks about the importance of patience and how to handle tough times. It discusses the role of God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit in our lives and how forgiveness plays a key part in our relationships, hinting that saying sorry might not be enough. Even if some churches don’t focus on it, the idea of a caring God doesn’t remove the need for forgiveness, and acknowledging Jesus’ sacrifice is essential for true peace and understanding life better.

1. God’s Prior Knowledge

The idea that God has chosen us, known as divine selection, is a basic belief in the Bible, including Jesus’ teachings. It means our faith comes from being selected by God, a choice based on His everlasting love for us, not what we do. This divine love, shown through the Holy Spirit’s work, deeply affects all parts of our lives.

2. The Holy Spirit’s Sanctification

The “sanctification of the Spirit” isn’t just about becoming more like Christ over time; it’s about being set aside for a special mission, like a pot made for God’s use. This process begins at the start of life, with the Holy Spirit shaping us even before we become Christians, seen in the influence of non-Christian mentors or the start of spiritual desires. The belief of divine selection supports this, comforting us in the knowledge that our lives are shaped by God’s love, drawing us towards accepting Jesus.

3. Jesus’ Blood Calls for Obedience

The belief of divine selection, often misunderstood, tells us that God’s choice is a mystery, not something we can judge. It’s not like Greek fatalism; our actions are linked to our destiny, and God’s influence is visible in our choices. This belief, a proof of God’s grace, can make the proud humble, raise up the humble, and comfort us with the knowledge that our lives are shaped by divine love.