Week 24: June 15
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CORE 52 - Chapter 24: "The Election and Predestination"
In Chapter 24 of CORE 52, titled "The Election and Predestination," Mark Moore explores the complex theological concepts of election and predestination, focusing on how these ideas are presented in Scripture. Moore begins by acknowledging that these topics have been the subject of much debate and confusion within the Christian faith. However, he emphasizes that understanding them is crucial for grasping God's sovereignty, grace, and the assurance that believers have in their salvation.
Moore explains that election refers to God’s choosing of individuals or groups for a specific purpose or calling. In the New Testament, it is often associated with God's decision to call people to salvation, choosing them to be part of His kingdom. Predestination, in this context, refers to God’s eternal plan and purpose in determining who will come to faith and receive eternal life through Jesus Christ.
The chapter outlines key passages, particularly from Ephesians 1:3-14, Romans 8:28-30, and 2 Timothy 1:9, where Paul discusses the themes of election and predestination. Moore emphasizes that these concepts should not lead to confusion or anxiety, but instead should inspire awe and trust in God’s perfect will. He also makes the point that while God’s election is sovereign, believers are still called to respond to God’s invitation to salvation through faith in Jesus Christ.
Moore also addresses the tension between divine sovereignty and human responsibility, pointing out that Scripture teaches both truths: God’s sovereign election and humanity’s need for a personal response to the gospel. Ultimately, the chapter encourages believers to trust in God’s plan, knowing that He is in control and that His choices are always for our good and His glory.
Application:
Reflect on the comfort and assurance that comes from knowing you are chosen by God. Consider how this truth can deepen your trust in God’s sovereignty and love for you.
Embrace the responsibility to respond to God’s calling with faith and obedience, understanding that both divine sovereignty and human responsibility are at work in the process of salvation.
Five Daily Spiritual Challenges:
Day 1: Reflect on God’s Sovereignty in Election Spend time today reflecting on the fact that God is sovereign in His choice of who will be saved. Read Ephesians 1:3-6 and meditate on the comfort and security that comes from knowing you are chosen by God. Pray for a deeper understanding of God’s perfect will and trust in His plan for your life.
Day 2: Understand the Role of Faith in Salvation While God elects and predestines, salvation still requires a personal response of faith in Jesus Christ. Reflect on how your faith in Christ aligns with God’s sovereign plan. Spend time today thanking God for the gift of faith and the opportunity to respond to His calling.
Day 3: Embrace Your Calling in Christ God’s election comes with a calling to live for His purposes. Reflect on how you can live out your calling as one who has been chosen by God. Ask God to show you how to serve Him and fulfill the purpose He has set for you, knowing that He has prepared good works for you to do (Ephesians 2:10).
Day 4: Trust in God’s Timing and Plan The concept of predestination emphasizes that God has a plan for your life, and His purposes will be fulfilled in His perfect timing. Reflect on any areas of your life where you are struggling with uncertainty or waiting for answers. Trust that God’s timing is always right and that He is working all things together for your good (Romans 8:28).
Day 5: Share the Gospel with Confidence If you have been chosen by God, you are part of His eternal plan. Reflect on how you can share the message of God’s grace and salvation with others. Look for an opportunity today to share the gospel with someone, knowing that God is sovereign in His plan of salvation, and that He invites everyone to respond.
Daily Thought-Provoking Questions:
Day 1: How does understanding that God is sovereign in His election bring you comfort and peace? How can you trust more deeply in God’s perfect plan for your salvation and life?
Day 2: How does the role of personal faith in salvation connect with the concept of God’s election? How can you strengthen your own faith in response to God’s calling?
Day 3: What is your calling as one who has been chosen by God? How can you live today in a way that fulfills God’s purpose for your life?
Day 4: In what areas of your life do you struggle with waiting or uncertainty? How can you trust God’s timing and rest in the assurance that His plan is being fulfilled?
Day 5: How can you share the message of salvation with others, knowing that God’s election and predestination are part of His plan for salvation? What is one specific way you can boldly and confidently share the gospel today?
Chapter 24 of CORE 52 invites readers to reflect on the profound and mysterious doctrines of election and predestination, encouraging them to embrace the assurance that comes from God’s sovereignty. It also challenges believers to respond to God’s calling with faith, obedience, and a commitment to living out their purpose in Christ. Understanding both divine sovereignty and human responsibility helps deepen trust in God’s plan and calls us to actively share the message of His grace and salvation with the world.