How do we know that election is a biblical doctrine?

The doctrine of election is rooted in the biblical narrative, where God is described as selecting individuals for salvation based on His purpose and will (Ephesians 1:4-5). Throughout scripture, we see that God's choice is not arbitrary but is based on His sovereign plan. For example, in Romans 9, Paul discusses how God chose Jacob over Esau before either had done anything good or bad, highlighting that His election is grace-based rather than works-based. This doctrine is crucial in understanding that salvation is initiated and carried out by God, thereby emphasizing the grace of God in choosing His people. Therefore, the assurance of salvation rests not on human efforts but on God's immutable and sovereign choice.