UNCONDITIONAL ELECTION Meaning and
Definition
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Unconditional election is a theological concept that primarily belongs to the Reformed tradition of Christianity. It refers to the belief that God, without any foreknowledge of human actions or merits, has predestined certain individuals to receive eternal salvation. In other words, unconditional election is the doctrine that asserts God's sovereignty in choosing whom He will save, solely based on His divine will, rather than any human efforts or qualifications.
According to this doctrine, God's choice is not influenced by human actions, faith, or any other characteristic of individuals. It is purely an act of divine grace and sovereignty. Unconditional election emphasizes the idea that God's decision to save is not dependent on anything external to Himself, making salvation entirely contingent upon His own purposes and not on any human contribution.
Proponents of unconditional election often cite biblical verses such as Romans 9:15-16, Ephesians 1:4-5, and John 15:16 as evidence for this doctrine. Criticisms against this belief question the fairness and justice of a God who elects some for salvation while leaving others to eternal damnation.
Unconditional election is a significant aspect of the broader theological system known as Calvinism or Reformed theology. It is one of the five points associated with this tradition, commonly known as TULIP, which stands for total depravity, unconditional election, limited atonement, irresistible grace, and perseverance of the saints.
Etymology of UNCONDITIONAL ELECTION
The word "unconditional" comes from the Latin word "unconditio", which is a combination of the prefix "un-" meaning "not" and the word "conditio" meaning "condition". It is used to convey the idea of something that is not dependent on or limited by any conditions.
The word "election" comes from the Latin word "electio", which means "choice" or "selection". It refers to the act of choosing or selecting someone or something.
When used together as "unconditional election", the phrase refers to a theological concept within certain Christian traditions, particularly in the context of Calvinism. It is a doctrine that asserts that God's choice of who will be saved and who will be damned is not based on any conditions or qualities of the individual but is solely determined by God's sovereign will. The word "unconditional" emphasizes that this election is not contingent upon any human actions or merits.
