ἐκλογή

a choosing out, selecting, choice by God

Definition

ἐκλογή refers to the act of choosing or selecting, specifically God's sovereign choice of individuals or groups for His purposes. In the New Testament, it primarily denotes God's gracious election of believers for salvation, as seen in Romans 11:5, where Paul speaks of a 'remnant chosen by grace.' It also describes God's selection of specific individuals for particular roles, such as Paul being chosen as an instrument to carry God's name to the Gentiles (Acts 9:15). The term emphasizes that this choice originates from God's will and initiative, not human merit, highlighting His sovereignty in salvation history.

Biblical Usage

ἐκλογή is used exclusively in theological contexts in the New Testament, appearing seven times across Acts, Romans, 1 Thessalonians, and 2 Peter. In Romans 9-11, it is central to Paul's discussion of God's election of Israel and the remnant (Romans 9:11, 11:5, 11:7, 11:28). In 1 Thessalonians 1:4, it assures believers of their chosen status, while 2 Peter 1:10 encourages them to confirm their election through spiritual growth. The word consistently underscores God's purposeful selection, whether for salvation or service.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition ἐκ (ek, meaning 'out of') and the root λέγω (legō, meaning 'to say' or 'to gather'), ἐκλογή literally means 'a choosing out' or 'selection.' It implies a deliberate picking from among alternatives, with the prefix ἐκ emphasizing separation or distinction. Cognates include ἐκλέγομαι (eklegomai, G1586), the verb 'to choose,' which appears in contexts like Jesus choosing His disciples (John 15:16).

Semantic Range

ἐκλογή is crucial for understanding the doctrine of election, highlighting God's sovereign grace in salvation. It teaches that believers are chosen by God's will alone (Romans 9:11), not by human works, fostering humility and assurance. This concept enriches Bible reading by revealing God's purposeful plan in history, as seen in His election of Israel and the church. It also connects to themes like predestination and covenant, emphasizing that salvation is rooted in God's initiative.

In the Greco-Roman world, ἐκλογή was used in secular contexts for selecting officials or soldiers, implying a deliberate choice based on merit or suitability. However, the New Testament redefines it theologically, shifting focus from human qualification to God's gracious, unconditional choice. This contrasts with cultural expectations of earned status, underscoring the radical nature of divine election as an act of grace rather than human achievement.

πρόθεσις (prothesis, G4286) — emphasizes God's predetermined plan or purpose, whereas ἐκλογή focuses on the act of choosing. ἐκλέγομαι (eklegomai, G1586) — the verb form meaning 'to choose,' often used interchangeably but highlighting the action rather than the concept. κλήσις (klēsis, G2821) — refers to the 'calling' that results from election, focusing on God's invitation rather than the selection itself.

Word Details

Scripture References