Chosen People

If you are like me then you have probably wondered at some point how God could have a chosen people. We know that the nation of Israel (the Jews) is God’s chosen people, so how is that fair? 

How could God have a chosen people to the exclusion of all other people groups?

Perhaps Psalm 67 can shine some light on this concept:

“May God be gracious to us and bless us
and make His face to shine upon us,

that your way may be known on earth,
 your saving power among all nations (verses 1-2).” 

That chapter only has 7 verses, and I would recommend reading the rest of it, but focus for just a minute on those first two verses.

“May God be gracious to us,” says the psalmist. This is a Jew, a member of that chosen race. He is asking for God’s goodness and blessing to be in his life and among the Jewish nation. But his motives are not selfish; look what will happen if the Lord is in fact gracious.

“That your way may be known on earth, your saving power among all nations.” God called Israel out of slavery, made a covenant with them, gave them their promised land, promised them a Deliverer, fulfilled that promise through Jesus, and redeems all who put their faith in Him. This was obviously good for Israel, but the benefits are not limited to just Israel.

Instead of thinking that God had a chosen nation to the exclusion of every other nation, we should realize that God had a chosen nation for the good of every other nation. God chose Israel as a means to demonstrate His love and goodness to all who call Him Lord.

Even in the Old Testament Gentiles could be saved. Consider Moses’ wife and father in law, as well as Rahab and Ruth. Each of them was saved as a direct result of the Israelites, whom the Lord has been gracious to.

Let us give thanks to God for the goodness and mercy He extends to all who call on Him!

(Read Part 2)