How do we know election is not the same as salvation?
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The distinction between natural election and true salvation is emphasized by Jesus, pointing out that not all who are ethnically Jewish are part of the true Israel of God.
In the sermon, Jesus illustrates that national or natural election, as seen in God's choosing of Israel, does not equate to individual salvation. For example, Jesus references the widow from Zarephath and Naaman the Syrian, both Gentiles, who received God's mercy while many Israelites in need did not. This demonstrates that true election is spiritual and based on God's sovereign grace, not merely ethnic identity or heritage. The kingdom of God, as announced by Jesus, transcends national boundaries and is open to all who are called, revealing that, in Romans 9, not all Israel are Israel.
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