NAS Word Usage – Total: 22

1. picked out, chosen
   1. chosen by God,
      1. to obtain salvation through Christ 1a
   2. Christians are called “chosen or elect” of God
      1. the Messiah in called “elect”, as appointed by God to the most exalted office conceivable
      2. choice, select, i.e. the best of its kind or class, excellence preeminent: applied to certain individual Christians

The Greek Language and the New Testament

To fully grasp the significance of “Eklektos,” it is important to understand the importance of the Greek language in the New Testament. The New Testament was originally written in Koine Greek, a common dialect of Greek spoken during the Hellenistic and Roman periods. Greek was the lingua franca of the eastern Mediterranean, making it an influential language for early Christian writings.

The Basic Meaning of Eklektos

“Eklektos” (ἐκλεκτός) is a Greek adjective that means “chosen,” “elect,” or “selected.” The root of the word is derived from “eklegomai” (ἐκλέγομαι), which means “to choose” or “to select.” In everyday Greek, “eklektos” could refer to anything that has been specially chosen, ranging from people to objects.

Biblical Usage of Eklektos

In the Bible, “Eklektos” is commonly used to describe those who have been chosen by God. This concept of being chosen carries a special connotation of divine selection for a particular purpose or destiny. The word appears in various contexts throughout the New Testament, shedding light on the different aspects of what it means to be chosen by God.

Old Testament Foreshadowing

The idea of being chosen by God isn’t unique to the New Testament; it has roots in the Old Testament. The concept of God’s elect can be seen in His selection of the Israelites as His chosen people. Verses like Deuteronomy 7:6 highlight how God chose Israel to be a people for His own possession. While the term “Eklektos” itself isn’t used in the Hebrew scriptures, the concept is certainly present and is expanded upon in the New Testament.

Eklektos in the Gospels

One significant use of “Eklektos” is found in the Gospels, where Jesus Himself speaks of the elect. For example, in Matthew 24:22, Jesus discusses the end times and mentions that for the sake of the elect, those days will be shortened. Here, “Eklektos” refers to God’s chosen people who will be preserved during times of tribulation.

In another instance, Jesus speaks of His followers as the elect. In Luke 18:7, Jesus asks, “And will not God bring about justice for his chosen ones, who cry out to him day and night?” Once again, we see “Eklektos” used to signify those who belong to God and are under His special care.

Eklektos in the Epistles

The Apostle Paul also frequently uses the term “Eklektos” to describe believers. In Romans 8:33, he writes, “Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies.” Here, “Eklektos” identifies believers as those chosen by God and made righteous through faith in Jesus Christ.

In Colossians 3:12, Paul calls the believers “God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved.” He encourages them to clothe themselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. This not only underscores their special status as the elect but also outlines the qualities expected of them.

The Apostle Peter similarly uses “Eklektos” in his writings. In 1 Peter 2:9, he writes, “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession.” Here, “Eklektos” conveys the special identity and purpose of believers as those who have been called out of darkness into God’s wonderful light.

Theological Implications of Eklektos

Understanding “Eklektos” goes beyond merely knowing that it means “chosen.” It taps into the broader theological concept of divine election. This doctrine emphasizes that God, in His sovereignty, chooses certain individuals or groups for specific purposes. There are several key theological implications of being “Eklektos.”

Divine Sovereignty and Human Responsibility

The idea of being elect can sometimes raise questions about divine sovereignty and human responsibility. If God chooses certain people, what does that mean for human free will? While theologians have debated this topic for centuries, the prevailing consensus is that divine election does not negate human responsibility. Instead, it highlights God’s initiative and grace in the salvation process while still affirming that individuals must respond in faith.

Assurance of Salvation

Another significant implication of being “Eklektos” is the assurance of salvation. For believers, knowing they are chosen by God provides a sense of security and confidence. Romans 8:38-39 declares that nothing can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus. This assurance stems from the understanding that those who are “Eklektos” are eternally secure in God’s love and purpose.

Identity and Purpose

Being “Eklektos” also shapes the identity and mission of believers. It serves as a reminder that Christians are called to live differently because of their special status. This is evident in Paul’s writings, where he encourages the elect to live lives worthy of their calling. Believers are called to exhibit qualities that reflect their identity as God’s chosen people, living out their faith in ways that honor Him.

Eklektos and the Community of Believers

Furthermore, understanding “Eklektos” reinforces the communal aspect of the Christian faith. The term is often used in the plural form, indicating that the elect is a collective group of people chosen by God. This underscores the importance of community and unity within the body of Christ. Believers are not chosen in isolation but are part of a larger, diverse family of faith.

Eklektos in Worship and Daily Life

Knowing that we are “Eklektos” has practical applications in our daily lives and worship. It reminds us to live with gratitude, humility, and purpose. In worship, acknowledging our status as God’s elect can deepen our appreciation for His grace and sovereignty.

In our daily lives, the knowledge that we are chosen should influence how we interact with others. It encourages us to extend grace, show kindness, and live with integrity. Being “Eklektos” is not just about a special status but about a calling to live out God’s love and purposes in the world.

Conclusion

The term “Eklektos” carries profound meaning and significance in the context of the Bible. It reminds us of the special status and purpose that believers have as God’s chosen people. Understanding what “Eklektos” means in Greek in the context of the Bible helps enrich our comprehension of biblical texts and deepens our appreciation for God’s grace and sovereignty.

As we reflect on the various ways “Eklektos” is used in the New Testament, we see a consistent emphasis on God’s initiative, the assurance of salvation, and the call to live out our faith in community and daily life. Being “Eklektos” is not just about being chosen; it’s about embracing our identity and mission as people loved by God and called to reflect His love to the world.