Why did God choose to save people? The answer to this question is vastly important because, for Christians, it dictates the way we will live our saved lives, and to what purpose we will enjoy the grace of God.
First, let us look at what is not the reason God saved people. God did not save people because he was obligated to do so. He is not. In fact, his goodness actually demands the opposite. A good and holy God cannot commend sin, he must punish it and cast it away from his perfect dwelling place in heaven. The truth is that people are sinful, and because of this a good God must punish our sin.
Another idea that comes closer to the mark, but still misses, is that God saved people so that they would enjoy his gifts. This is so painfully close to the truth,—yet it is simply not true.
The reason God chose to save people is this: He saves people so that they will be enabled to willingly bring praise to his name. Romans 3:10-11 says, “As it is written: None is righteous, no, not one; no one understands; no one seeks for God.” This piece of scripture tells us that, in our natural state, NO ONE has a heart that desires God. If people are to willingly exalt and praise his name, something radical has to happen–our very nature must be changed.
God has chosen to save us in such a way that we would be glorified and blessed, but that is not for the purpose of our glorification and blessing. Ephesians 1:5&6 says, “In love he[God] predestined us for adoption as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will, to the praise of his glorious grace.” God did not bless us so that we would be happy. He changed us miraculously so that we would be brought to a place where he would be a blessing to us; where he would be something that we desire, enjoy, and find satisfaction in; and, finally, where our joy and satisfaction in him would be made manifest the the joy we find in bringing praise to his name, and his glorious grace!
You have turned for me my mourning into dancing;
you have loosed my sackcloth and clothed me with gladness,
that my glory may sing your praise and not be silent,
O Lord my God, I will give thanks to you forever!
(Psalm 30:11-12)
by Mark Dodd
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