The gracious and free act of God by which He calls those who become part of His kingdom and special beneficiaries of His love and blessings (2 Pet 1:10). The Bible describes the concept of election in three distinct ways. Election sometimes refers to the choice of Israel and the

church as a people for special service and privileges. Election may also refer to the choice of a specific individual to some office or to perform some special service. Still other passages of the Bible refer to the election of individuals to be children of God and heirs of eternal life.