Chosen by Grace
For Meditation (Corey Widmer)
In this chapter, we come to a tricky topic that can be quite controversial at times, and that is the subject fo what it means for God's people to be "chosen." In fact, some have argued that the idea of any religious group believing that they are "the chosen ones" is one of the great problems of our world, and is the source of so much conflict and even violence down the ages. This chapter is particularly troubling because it also involves God instructing his people to destroy the inhabitants of the land of Canaan (a topic that deserves a whole sermon of its own!).
But when we look at these verses carefully, we see clearly that being "chosen" is not about superiority or privilege. Actually, God makes clear it is the opposite. First and foremost, being chosen is about grace. God chooses his people not because of any commendable attribute, but simply because he loves us. This should form us into deeply humble people who never see others as beneath us. Additionally, God makes clear that chosen-ness is about responsibility, Specifically, God chooses his people in order to bear witness to his goodness to the nations, to be a set apart community that models the way of the Kingdom of God.
As you prepare for worship this Sunday, consider the following:
When you hear the word chosen, what feelings or assumptions come to mind? How does Deuteronomy 7:6–11 challenge or reshape those assumptions?
God makes clear that Israel was chosen not because of their greatness but because of his love and faithfulness. How does this truth shape the way you understand your own identity as a Christian?
In what ways can the idea of being “chosen” become distorted into pride, superiority, or exclusion? Reflect on or discuss examples you’ve seen in history, the church, or even in your own experience.
If being chosen is about responsibility—bearing witness to God’s goodness—what might that look like in your everyday life, neighborhood, or workplace? What are some practical ways your parish or small group could do this together?
How does reflecting on God’s grace and faithfulness in choosing his people encourage you to trust him more deeply today?
Deuteronomy 7:6–11
For you are a people holy to the Lord your God. The Lord your God has chosen you out of all the peoples on the face of the earth to be his people, his treasured possession.
The Lord did not set his affection on you and choose you because you were more numerous than other peoples, for you were the fewest of all peoples. But it was because the Lord loved you and kept the oath he swore to your ancestors that he brought you out with a mighty hand and redeemed you from the land of slavery, from the power of Pharaoh king of Egypt. Know therefore that the Lord your God is God; he is the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love him and keep his commandments. But
those who hate him he will repay to their face by destruction;
he will not be slow to repay to their face those who hate him.
Therefore, take care to follow the commands, decrees and laws I give you today.
Read along with us this fall! Download our Deuteronomy Reading Guide here.