polloi. ga,r eivsin klhtoi.( ovli,goi de. evklektoi,Å

For many are called, but few are chosen. Matthew 22:14

In preparation for this week's class, please read: Genesis 12:1-10, 2 Corinthians 5:11-21, Matthew 22:1-14

Calvin cautions against human curiosity in this discussion which may lead to forbidden and dangerous places.  But he also insists that we not be timid in teaching election.  Election is God’s prerogative but with it comes human responsibility…”blessed to be a blessing” and reconciled for a ministry of reconciliation. 

The subject of predestination, which in itself is attended with considerable difficulty is rendered very perplexed and hence perilous by human curiosity, which cannot be restrained from wandering into forbidden paths and climbing to the clouds determined if it can that none of the secret things of God shall remain unexplored. When we see many, some of them in other respects not bad men, every where rushing into this audacity and wickedness, it is necessary to remind them of the course of duty in this matter. First, then, when they inquire into predestination, let then remember that they are penetrating into the recesses of the divine wisdom, where he who rushes forward securely and confidently, instead of satisfying his curiosity will enter an inextricable labyrinth... For it is not right that man should with impunity pry into things which the Lord has been pleased to conceal within himself, and scan that sublime eternal wisdom which it is his pleasure that we should not apprehend but adore, that therein also his perfections may appear. Those secrets of his will, which he has seen it meet to manifest, are revealed in his word—revealed in so far as he knew to be conducive to our interest and welfare. Institutes 3.xxi.1

Chosen, elect, predestined, and foreknown are all biblical words.  Here is a sampler of their use (click on the "expand" button on the Bible Gateway site to see the context of the verse or passage):

We must be cautious lest our human curiosity take us to perilous places, but bold enough to find in them things conducive to our interest and welfare.

  • John Leith notes that the doctrine of predestination is placed at the end of Calvin's consideration of the Christian life.  Why might it be a "last to be considered" doctrine?
  • What comfort might be found in a doctrine of election?
  • What discomfort?
  • "Many called, but few called out."  What are the blessings and what are the burdens of our election?
  • Why is it easier to understand election in hindsight than with foresight?

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