### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term eklektos (`{{G1588}}`) is derived from the verb eklegomai (`{{G1586}}`), meaning "to pick out, choose, select." As an adjective, eklektos therefore signifies "chosen," "selected," or "elect." Its core meaning conveys a deliberate act of selection, implying a distinction or preference for the chosen entity out of a larger group. This selection is often made for a specific purpose, role, or privilege. By implication, eklektos can also carry the nuance of being "favorite," "precious," or of "choice" quality, denoting excellence or special value in the eyes of the one doing the choosing.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term eklektos appears frequently in the New Testament, primarily in the Gospels and Epistles, articulating God's sovereign choice.
* In the Synoptic Gospels, eklektos is used in the context of the end times, referring to "the elect" whom God will preserve and gather during the tribulation ([[Matthew 24:22]], [[Matthew 24:24]], [[Matthew 24:31]]; [[Mark 13:20]], [[Mark 13:22]], [[Mark 13:27]]). This highlights God's protective care over those He has chosen.
* Luke also uses the term, with some textual variation, to describe Jesus Himself as God's "Chosen One" ([[Luke 9:35]]). Furthermore, Jesus speaks of God avenging His "elect" who cry out to Him ([[Luke 18:7]]), emphasizing God's commitment to His chosen people.
* Pauline epistles frequently employ eklektos. In Romans, it refers to Israel as "beloved for the sake of their fathers" (i.e., chosen by God) ([[Romans 11:28]]), and to individuals like Rufus's mother, described as "chosen in the Lord" ([[Romans 16:13]]). In Colossians, believers are exhorted to live righteously "as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved" ([[Colossians 3:12]]), underscoring the ethical implications of their chosen status. Paul also identifies himself as an apostle "for the faith of God's elect" ([[Titus 1:1]]), indicating his ministry's specific focus.
* The Petrine epistles prominently feature eklektos. Believers are addressed as "elect exiles" ([[1 Peter 1:1]]), highlighting their identity and temporary dwelling. Jesus is presented as the "precious cornerstone, chosen by God" ([[1 Peter 2:4]], [[1 Peter 2:6]]), establishing Him as the ultimate eklektos. Furthermore, believers are collectively described as a "chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God's own possession" ([[1 Peter 2:9]]), emphasizing their corporate identity and purpose.
* In 2 John, the "elect lady" and her "elect sister" ([[2 John 1:1]], [[2 John 1:13]]) are addressed, likely referring to specific churches or individuals who are distinguished by their divine selection.
Across these contexts, eklektos consistently points to a divine act of selection, conferring a special status, purpose, and relationship with God.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of eklektos includes several closely related terms and concepts:
* **eklegomai (`{{G1586}}`):** The verbal root, meaning "to choose out, select." This verb emphasizes the active, deliberate nature of God's choice, from which the adjective eklektos derives its meaning.
* **kletos (`{{G2822}}`):** "Called." While distinct from "chosen," these terms are often linked, as in "many are called, but few are chosen" ([[Matthew 22:14]]). "Called" refers to the divine invitation, while "chosen" refers to the divine selection that brings about salvation.
* **hagios (`{{G40}}`):** "Holy, set apart." Those who are chosen by God are often simultaneously described as holy, indicating their consecration and dedication to God's purposes.
* **agapetos (`{{G27}}`):** "Beloved." This term emphasizes the affection and love inherent in God's choice, particularly seen in how Jesus is referred to as God's "beloved" Son. In some textual traditions, eklektos and agapetos are used interchangeably in certain passages (e.g., [[Luke 9:35]]), highlighting the intimate connection between divine choice and divine love.
* **Old Testament Parallels:** The concept of "chosen" is deeply rooted in the Hebrew Scriptures, where Israel is consistently referred to as God's chosen people (e.g., Deuteronomy 7:6; Psalm 33:12). The Septuagint frequently translates Hebrew terms like bachir (`{{H972}}`, "chosen, elect") or bahar (`{{H977}}`, "to choose") with eklektos, demonstrating a continuity of theological thought.
### Theological Significance
The term eklektos is foundational to the biblical doctrine of election, a profound theological concept that underscores God's sovereign initiative in salvation.
* **Divine Sovereignty and Grace:** Eklektos highlights that salvation is fundamentally an act of God's unmerited favor, not a human achievement. God, in His infinite wisdom and grace, chooses individuals or groups for a special relationship with Himself and for the purpose of salvation. This emphasizes God's absolute freedom and authority.
* **Purpose and Destiny:** Being "chosen" implies a divine purpose. The elect are not merely chosen *to* salvation but *for* a life of holiness, good works, and to manifest God's glory ([[Ephesians 1:4]], [[Ephesians 2:10]]). They are set apart for a particular mission in the world.
* **Assurance and Security:** For believers, the understanding of being eklektos provides profound assurance and security in their salvation. It signifies that their standing with God is not dependent on their fluctuating performance but on God's unchanging, eternal choice and faithfulness.
* **Christocentricity:** Jesus Christ is the preeminent eklektos of God, the ultimate Chosen One. All divine election is ultimately centered in and accomplished through Him. Believers are "chosen in Christ" ([[Ephesians 1:4]]), meaning their election is inextricably linked to their union with Him.
* **Ethical Imperative:** While election is an act of grace, the New Testament often connects the status of being eklektos with a call to live a life worthy of this high calling. Believers are exhorted to embody virtues such as compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, as fitting for "God's chosen ones" ([[Colossians 3:12]]).
### Summary
The Greek word eklektos (`{{G1588}}`), meaning "chosen" or "elect," derives from eklegomai (`{{G1586}}`, "to pick out, select"). It signifies a deliberate, sovereign act of divine selection, conveying special favor, distinction, and purpose. In the New Testament, eklektos is applied to Jesus as God's unique "Chosen One" and to believers as "God's elect," underscoring their identity as those whom God has set apart for salvation and service. This term is central to the doctrine of election, emphasizing God's initiative, unmerited grace, and purposeful design in salvation. It provides believers with assurance of their secure standing in Christ and calls them to live lives that reflect their divine calling and identity.
TRV