And it is the interest of believers to endeavour earnestly…
““And it is the interest of believers to endeavour earnestly after this assurance of their election. For, 1st, It is not possible, they should have a life of joy and exultation in the Lord, while they are ignorant of this. They may, no doubt, happily fall asleep in the Lord, and, through death, reach to eternal life, though they are not assured of their election. For our salvation depends not on this full assurance of faith; but on our union and communion with Christ, which may remain safe and secure without that. But a man who has his salvation at heart, as he ought, cannot live in secure joy, so long as he doubts of his election. 2dly, Nor does this assurance greatly contribute to our joy only, but also very much to the glory of God. For then it is that we properly value the riches of divine love, and are sweetly swallowed up in the immense ocean of his goodness, when we ascend, in our minds and in our praises, to the original fountain of all grace; and, in imitation of Paul, celebrate his free love, by which “He hath chosen us in Christ Jesus, to the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved,” Eph. 1:6.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Assurance of election is not essential for salvation; union with Christ provides security, yet doubts hinder joy and glorify God.
In simple terms: Faith in Christ offers security even without full assurance.
Key Takeaway
Trust in Christ’s union for security.
Themes
faith
assurance
joy
glory
Mood
contemplative
reverent
hopeful
Type
theological
spiritual
reflective
When to use this quote
- personal prayer
- church teaching
- spiritual counseling
- biblical study
Key Concepts
theology
election
spiritual confidence
Questions to Reflect On
- How does doubt affect your spiritual joy?
- What practices foster confidence without certainty?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on assurance can lead to spiritual anxiety.