### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word eklogḗ (G1589) is a noun derived from the verb eklegomai (G1586), which means "to pick out," "to choose," or "to select." As such, eklogḗ denotes the act of choosing, the process of selection, or the resulting state or group of those chosen. Its core meaning centers on selection, often with an emphasis on a deliberate and purposeful choice. In the New Testament, eklogḗ almost exclusively refers to divine selection, highlighting God's sovereign initiative in choosing individuals or groups for a particular purpose or for salvation. It can refer abstractly to the concept of election (e.g., "God's purpose of election") or concretely to the chosen people themselves (e.g., "the elect").
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term eklogḗ appears seven times in the New Testament, primarily in the Pauline epistles, where it carries significant theological weight:
* **[[Romans 9:11]]**: In the context of Jacob and Esau, Paul states that God's "purpose of election" (κατ' ἐκλογὴν πρόθεσις τοῦ θεοῦ) stands, not based on works but on God's call. This verse underscores the unconditional nature of divine election, rooted solely in God's sovereign will and independent of human merit.
* **[[Romans 11:5]]**: Paul applies the concept to a remnant of Israel in his own day, noting that "at the present time there is a remnant, chosen by grace according to election" (κατ' ἐκλογὴν χάριτος). This emphasizes that God's ongoing choice of a people is an act of unmerited favor.
* **[[Romans 11:7]]**: Here, eklogḗ (τὴν ἐκλογήν) refers to the chosen remnant of Israel who obtained righteousness, while the rest were hardened. In this instance, eklogḗ functions as a collective noun for "the elect" or "the chosen ones."
* **[[Romans 11:28]]**: Paul distinguishes between Israel's current status as "enemies for your sake" (referring to their rejection of the gospel) and their enduring status "as regards election" (κατὰ δὲ τὴν ἐκλογήν), where they remain "beloved for the sake of their forefathers." This suggests an irrevocable divine choice that persists despite temporary disobedience.
* **[[1 Thessalonians 1:4]]**: Paul assures the Thessalonian believers, "For we know, brothers beloved by God, that he has chosen you" (τὴν ἐκλογὴν ὑμῶν). The evidence of their election is seen in the power of the gospel, the Holy Spirit, and their faith, love, and hope. This highlights that the effects of election are discernible in the lives of believers.
* **[[2 Peter 1:10]]**: Believers are exhorted to "be all the more diligent to confirm your calling and election" (τὴν κλῆσιν καὶ ἐκλογὴν βεβαίαν ποιεῖσθαι). This does not mean making election true, but rather demonstrating its reality through a life of moral excellence and spiritual growth, thereby gaining assurance.
These occurrences consistently point to God's active, purposeful, and gracious selection of individuals and groups, both for specific roles within His historical plan and for eternal salvation.
### Related Words & Concepts
The understanding of eklogḗ is enriched by its relationship with several other key biblical terms:
* **eklegomai (G1586):** The verbal root, meaning "to choose out." This verb is frequently used to describe God's act of choosing, whether it be disciples (e.g., [[John 15:16]]), Israel (e.g., [[Acts 13:17]]), or believers in Christ (e.g., [[Ephesians 1:4]]). eklogḗ is the noun form representing the result or act of this choosing.
* **klēsis (G2821):** "Calling." Often paired with eklogḗ (e.g., [[2 Peter 1:10]]). While election refers to God's eternal choice, calling refers to the effective summons by which God draws individuals to Himself in time. Election is God's prior determination; calling is its manifestation.
* **proorizō (G4309):** "To predestine," "to predetermine." This term emphasizes the *fore-ordination* of God's plan, including the destiny of those chosen. It underscores the eternal nature of God's counsel that underlies election.
* **dikaios (G1342) / dikaiosynē (G1343):** "Righteous" / "righteousness." The elect are chosen unto righteousness (e.g., [[Romans 11:7]]), indicating that election is not merely for privilege but for transformation into God's likeness.
* **Covenant:** The concept of God choosing a people is deeply rooted in the Old Testament covenant relationship with Israel (e.g., God's choice of Abraham and his descendants, [[Deuteronomy 7:6-8]]). In the New Testament, eklogḗ extends this idea to the church as God's chosen people in the new covenant.
### Theological Significance
The doctrine of eklogḗ is a cornerstone of biblical theology, carrying profound implications:
1. **Divine Sovereignty and Initiative:** eklogḗ unequivocally asserts God's absolute sovereignty in salvation. Election is not based on human merit, foreseen faith, or works, but solely on God's free and unconditioned choice (e.g., [[Romans 9:11]], [[Romans 11:5-6]]). This highlights God's ultimate authority and initiative in bringing about salvation.
2. **Grace as Foundation:** Election is fundamentally an act of pure grace. It underscores that salvation is entirely God's unmerited gift, preventing any human boasting (e.g., [[Romans 11:6]]).
3. **Purposeful Selection:** God's election is always teleological; it is for a purpose. For Israel, it was to be a unique people, a conduit for revelation and the Messiah. For believers, it is unto salvation, holiness, and good works (e.g., [[Ephesians 1:4]], [[Ephesians 2:10]]). Election is not an arbitrary choice but a purposeful selection for relationship and service.
4. **Assurance and Responsibility:** While election is God's eternal counsel, its effects are discernible in the lives of believers. The presence of faith, love, hope, and the transforming power of the gospel serve as evidence of election (e.g., [[1 Thessalonians 1:3-5]]). Believers are called to "confirm" their election through diligent pursuit of godliness, which leads to assurance and steadfastness (e.g., [[2 Peter 1:10]]). This highlights the interplay between divine sovereignty and human responsibility.
5. **Corporate and Individual Dimensions:** eklogḗ applies to both individuals (e.g., Jacob over Esau, the Thessalonians) and to corporate entities (e.g., the remnant of Israel, the church as God's chosen people). This demonstrates God's plan for a people set apart for Himself, not merely isolated individuals.
6. **Mystery and Humility:** Despite its clear biblical presence, the doctrine of election remains a profound mystery. It affirms both God's sovereign choice and human accountability, a tension that calls for humility, awe, and trust in God's perfect wisdom and justice.
### Summary
The Greek word eklogḗ (G1589), meaning "election" or "selection," is a pivotal term in the New Testament, primarily denoting God's sovereign, gracious, and purposeful choice of individuals and groups. Derived from eklegomai (G1586), it emphasizes divine initiative, independent of human merit, as powerfully articulated in [[Romans 9:11]] and [[Romans 11:5]]. eklogḗ can refer to the act of divine choosing or to the collective body of "the elect" (e.g., [[Romans 11:7]]). Theologically, it underscores God's absolute sovereignty in salvation, the foundational role of grace, and the purposeful nature of His redemptive plan. While a profound mystery, the concept of eklogḗ offers deep assurance to believers, who are encouraged to confirm their election through a life of diligent godliness (e.g., [[2 Peter 1:10]]), thereby demonstrating the tangible reality of God's eternal choice within their lives. It is a cornerstone of understanding God's relationship with His people and the means by which He brings about salvation.
TRV