ELECTION (POOLE) 1988

"What then? Israel hath not obtained that which he seeketh for; but the election hath obtained it, and the rest were blinded." Roman. 11:7

If there is any one doctrine the Arminians would delight in tearing from the Bible the action of grace is that which they would rip out first. Simply put, the natural man hates the thought that God chooses some and damns others. That is to be expected. God's word is full of testimony to the inveterate malice of man towards all truth, not just this subject. The natural, or unrenewed man is enmity against God. There are no exceptions.

Sweeter words were never heard than those written by Paul in Eph. 1, when he recorded that the saints were chosen in Christ before the foundation of the world that they may be holy and without blame before Him. This is food for the soul of poor hungry pilgrims. Yet, few there be that hold it dear.

Many of the family of God have found to their surprise, even consternation, that most of their earthly family and friends are hostile and antagonistic to the very doctrine they thought all would believe if but told. Alas, it is not that way at all!

As we begin to find there is but a scattered remnant here that see eye to eye with us on this lovely subject we experience alternating moods of gloom and resignation. Gloom, because we are so alone, and resignation because we are convinced by experience that the Lord alone is sufficient to reveal electing love to sinners.

Where, we ask, are the lambs of His flock? Am I alone? "O, is there anyone like me?" These, and countless other questions fill the troubled souls of those who have tasted that the Lord is gracious. Be not so troubled, dear brethren. His purposes will ripen fast, as the poet Cowper expressed. God will sustain His elect in the trying hours, though all the fiends of hell rant against the election of grace.

His sons elect, He knows them well,

Nor less beloved when Adam fell;

Bound in life's bundle, called His own,

As sons of peace to Him foreknown.

Sonnets.

What others may or may not think of election will never be the great point for true believers. Am I His son through electing love is the question the Remnant asks?

J.F.P.