What does the Bible say about God's mercy and election?

The concept of God's mercy and election is central to the doctrine of sovereign grace. According to Romans 9:15, God declares, 'I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy.' This emphasizes God's sovereign prerogative to choose whom He will save without regard to human merit. The distinction between those who receive mercy and those who are hardened is ultimately based on God's deliberate choice and purpose, as seen in the context of His dealings with Pharaoh and Jacob. Jacob's election represents God's unconditional love and mercy bestowed before any works were done by either him or his brother Esau, highlighting that salvation is entirely of God's grace.