From the DAWGHouse…
What Does It Mean to Be Chosen by God
As Pastor Pete shared with us at Forge this week, the word Electos, in Latin, or Eklectos, in Greek, means “the chosen”— it carries a weight that echoes through Scripture. To be chosen by God is not about favoritism or status, but about divine grace and purpose. The doctrine of election, a cornerstone of Reformed theology, tells us something both humbling and profound: that before the foundation of the world, God set His love on His people and called them His own (Ephesians 1:4-5).
To be chosen by God is to be singled out, not because of our worth, merit, or potential, but purely because of His sovereign will and unmerited favor. It’s a divine mystery that doesn’t diminish human responsibility but magnifies God’s mercy. We are not chosen because we were holy or good—we are made holy because we were chosen (Deuteronomy 7:6-8).
Many wrestle with the idea of election.
Why does God choose some and not others? It’s a question that can stir the heart and mind, but it also misses the central point: election is always rooted in God’s character, not ours. He is just. He is good. And He desires none to perish but all to come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9). Yet, He also works all things according to His perfect plan—including the salvation of His people.
Being chosen means being set apart for a purpose. It’s not merely about salvation, though that is foundational. It’s also about calling, transformation, and mission. Romans 8:29 says those whom God foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son. In other words, God didn’t just choose us to save us from something—He chose us for something: to reflect Christ in the world.
That calling should stir a deep humility within us.
There’s no room for boasting, only gratitude. Paul says in 1 Corinthians 1:27-29 that God chose what is foolish, weak, and lowly in the world to shame the strong—so that no one may boast before Him. The elect are trophies of grace, not proof of personal greatness.
And here is the comfort: if you are in Christ, you can rest in the security of knowing that God has chosen you. You didn’t stumble into faith by accident. You were sought, pursued, and embraced. And He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion (Philippians 1:6).
Being chosen doesn’t lead us to pride—it leads us to worship. It doesn’t make us complacent—it compels us to live holy lives, love others deeply, and share the gospel boldly. Because God didn’t choose us to sit on the sidelines. He chose us to run the race, bear fruit, and shine as lights in a dark world (John 15:16).
So, when you hear the word Electos, let it remind you: you are chosen, not by chance, but by grace. You are part of a story that began in eternity and will stretch into forever.
Walk worthy of that calling—not to earn God’s love, but because you already have it.
Chosen to be free, in Him!
Joe Bouch
