Chapter XIV: The Use of this Doctrine and Definitions, § 216
CHAPTER XIV: THE USE OF THIS DOCTRINE AND THE DEFINITION OF ELECTION
The use of the doctrine of election.
§ 216. As the final flourish of our pen, we shall touch briefly on the use of this doctrine of election. A sober treatment of this mystery in harmony with Scripture shows us the depths of divine mercy to which alone our election to eternal life is to be ascribed in its totality. It crushes all boasting over our own merits as well as confidence in ourselves. It makes firm the certainty of our salvation, which rests on the omnipotent and most beneficent hand of God. It rouses us to sincere love of God, who first loved us before the foundations of the world were laid. It nourishes a mutual love and affection for those whom we hope to have as our associates in eternal life as people also elected out of pure grace. It stirs us up to an ardent zeal for the Word of God and to the frequent use of the Sacraments, through which means the Holy Spirit wants to kindle, preserve, and increase faith in us. It kindles us to prayers and to the earnest exercise of piety, for “we have been chosen to be holy and blameless” (Eph. 1:4). Finally, it strengthens us to endure every adversity with a cheerful mind, for “those whom God foreknew He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son. We know that all things work together for good to those who love God, who are called saints according to His purpose” (Rom. 8:29, 28).
The definition of election and reprobation.
§ 217. Finally, from all that has been said previously, the following definition of election and reprobation can be gathered: Election, or predestination, is the action of the one and only true God by which, before the foundations of the world were laid, out of His boundless mercy in Christ, [and] according to His purpose and foreknowledge He ordered to eternal life those who would persevere in faith in Christ by the efficacy of the Holy Spirit through His Word to the praise of His glorious grace. Reprobation is the sentencing to eternal death made by His just judgment of those who God foresaw would persevere because of their own fault in their ultimate impenitence and unbelief.
Now, may God, who chose us in Christ before the foundations of the world were laid and who called us to His eternal glory in Christ Jesus, restore, comfort, strengthen, and establish us. To Him be glory and honor forever.