Many Called, Few Chosen: Understanding Election in Matthew 22:14

Matthew 22:14

14 For many are called, but few are chosen.

In the context of Matthew 22:14 being "chosen" refers to the act of God selecting and electing individuals who have cooperated with His grace by accepting the terms of salvation and putting on the wedding garment of Christ's righteousness Matthew 22:1-14LTJMB5 80.2+1. While the call of the gospel is extended to all people, only those who choose to be transformed by the Holy Spirit and align their lives with God's will are eventually counted among the electRH May 8, 1900, par. 18+2.

The Meaning of Election and Choice 🗳️

• Definition of Election: The word "election" signifies a "choosing out" or "selecting," identifying those who are recipients of special privileges because they are choice and precious in God’s sightSYNPT 306.1+1.

• Not Arbitrary: This selection is not a result of a stern decree of fate or an arbitrary act by God, but rather a choice made on the condition of the individual's cooperation with ChristSYNPT 306.1+2.

• The Individual's Part: God gives the free choice to everyone, and those who are "chosen" are those who themselves choose to accept the invitation and its requirements Deuteronomy 30:19SITI February 20, 1901, page 116.6.

• Cooperation with Grace: To be among the chosen, one must work on the "plan of addition," growing in Christian graces to make their calling and election sure 2 Peter 1:5-11PCP 47.2+1.

The Wedding Garment Requirement 👗

• Accepting the Invitation: The parable of the marriage of the king’s son illustrates that while many are invited to the feast, the "chosen" are those found wearing the wedding garment provided by the King Matthew 22:11-12RH May 8, 1900, par. 18+1.

• Symbolism of the Garment: This garment represents the righteousness of Christ, which must be sought, asked for, and put on by the believerRH May 8, 1900, par. 18+2.

• The Final Decision: Those found without this preparation are "called" but not "chosen" for the kingdom, as they have neglected to accept the free gift of salvation and heart-transformationRH May 8, 1900, par. 18+2.

Characteristics of the Chosen ✨

• A Peculiar People: The chosen are described as a "royal priesthood" and a "holy nation," called out of darkness to show forth the praises of God 1 Peter 2:9RH May 9, 1899, Art. A, par. 13+1.

• Obedience and Faith: Those who are elected are obedient to the faith and serve as a "remnant" who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus Revelation 14:12ARSH March 3, 1853, page 162.9+1.

• Spiritual Sincerity: The elect work in simplicity and humility, realizing that they can do no good thing of themselves and relying entirely on communion with GodBEcho July 10, 1899, par. 11.

• Making the Calling Sure: It is the duty of every believer to give all diligence to ensure their status among the chosen by living a life of prayer, watchfulness, and constant growth 2 Peter 1:10ARSH September 8, 1863, page 119.12+1.

Historical and Scriptural Examples 📖

• Israel and the Patriarchs: God’s election is seen throughout history, such as the selection of Abraham and the preservation of a remnant in Israel according to the election of grace Romans 11:5BHOTV1 61.3+1.

• Cyrus and Other Leaders: God calls specific individuals by name, such as Cyrus, to perform a particular work for the sake of His "elect" people, Israel Isaiah 45:1-4GEP 55.2.

• The 144,000: In the final days, a peculiar group is gathered who are described as being without guile or fault before the throne of God Revelation 14:1-5QSM 35.1.

In summary, being "chosen" is the result of a divine-human partnership where God’s invitation meets man’s willing acceptance and faithful service Philippians 2:12-13RH June 14, 1906, par. 13+1. 🙏