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NASB | Galatians 3:29 And if you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham's descendants, heirs according to promise. |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | Galatians 3:29 And if you belong to Christ [if you are in Him], then you are Abraham's descendants, and [spiritual] heirs according to [God's] promise. |
Bible Question (short): Who are "the elect"? |
Question (full): Who are the elect? Is it Israel only or is it all believers, Jews and Gentiles alike? The New Testament writers frequently use the term "the elect." My question is not a general question about the theology of election or, as some call it, predestination. My question is about how the term "the elect" is used, particularly in the New Testament. Does "the elect" mean only the nation of Israel? Or does it mean the NT church, which includes both Jewish and Gentile believers? A Messianic believer recently told me that when the Bible speaks of "the elect" it is speaking of Israel only. I disagree, but I need help in explaining to him why I disagree. Can anyone provide me with Bible-based information I could use to show him that the Bible term "the elect" does not apply solely to Israel? I'm asking for this information not for the purpose of winning an argument. I merely want to be able to show my friend the truth of the matter. Any factual, biblical information would be greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance. Grace to you, John * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Galatians 3:26-29 NASB For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus. For all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free man, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. And if you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham's descendants, heirs according to promise. |