Part 1 of this focus on Redemption looked at sections of scripture where God has revealed that he chooses those who come to Him.  This choice is not arbitrary or capricious, but it is done in love and with wisdom purpose.

Jesus teaches about the doctrine of election throughout the Gospels, as well.  The parable of the wedding feast in Matthew 11:1-14 ends with Jesus saying, "Many are called, but few are chosen."  In Matthew 24, Jesus refers to believers as "the elect" in verses 22, 24, and 31.  Romans 8:33, 1 Peter 1:1, and 2 Timothy 2:10 also refer to believers as the "elect."

God chooses by His own reasons and by His own character, which necessarily means that it is done in love.  This is not always obvious to us.  But scripture also teaches that God has hidden many of his reasons for acting from mankind.  Matthew 11:25-30 and Luke 10:21-22 reveal that God has hidden some things that relate to salvation from those who consider themselves wise, and Jesus praises Him for doing so.  Then in the same line of thought speaks of choosing to whom the Son will reveal the Father.

Election is specifically taught in both Paul's and Peter's New Testament letters.  Romans 11 talks at length about God's remnant that was chosen by grace and how that choice is irrevocable.  Even the Jews who are now enemies of the gospel will one day be saved.  They are chosen and God's promises will be honored.  1 Thessalonians 1:4-5 reveals that Paul knew those he was writing to were chosen because He had witnessed their conviction by the Holy Spirit.  Their salvation was accomplished by God, not by Paul's fancy preaching.  Peter writes in 2 Peter 1 that our obedient response to God gives us assurance of our election.

We should be grateful for our opportunity to serve God because we can only come to Him if He calls us.  Not everyone gets the opportunity to serve others on behalf of our creator God, and so we should treat our election as a privilege, not a burden.  In John 6:41-48 Jesus emphasizes that no one can come to Him unless the Father first grants it and again in John 6:63-65.  This should not give us doubt about our salvation, but give us assurance of its permanence.  In verse 37 of the same chapter Jesus tells us that all who are given to Him do come and that Jesus will never cast them out.

Many do not like the idea of this doctrine because they say it makes salvation a mechanical coercion in which we have no say.