The Bible doctrine of election has two sides. There is the divine side and the human side. God chose His people in Christ before the foundation of the world (Ephesians 1:4-6). However, the believer makes his calling and election sure in time (2 Peter 1:10).
God chose the elect before He created time. The elect are born again at a certain point in time. God chose the time of their conversion, but they must respond to His grace through repentance and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ (Galatians 1:15; 2:20).
The debate over election continues, as some look at the doctrine from God's perspective, and others look at it from man's view. If you begin with God, election is unconditional. If you begin with man, election is conditional. If you begin with God, election is certain to all the elect. If you begin with man, election is always contingent upon the response of repentance and faith. Jesus said, "unless you repent, you will all likewise perish" (Luke 13:3).
The two sides of election are based upon God's sovereignty and man's responsibility. God chose His elect in Christ before time began. Yet, we are responsible to receive Jesus Christ by faith (John 1:11-12). We must make our calling and election sure, as we grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ (2 Peter 1:10; 3:18).
