Unconditional Election and the Certainty of God’s Purpose (Chapter 3, Paragraphs 3–4)

Paragraph 3:“By the decree of God, for the manifestation of His glory, some men and angels are predestinated, or foreordained to eternal life through Jesus Christ, to the praise of His glorious grace; others being left to act in their sin to their just condemnation, to the praise of His glorious justice.”

This paragraph summarizes the Reformed doctrine of double predestination. Some are chosen by God unto eternal life. Others are passed over and left in their sin. But note the purpose behind it all: “for the manifestation of His glory.” Whether through salvation or judgment, God’s nature is revealed—His grace to the elect and His justice to the reprobate.

God did not owe salvation to any. All have sinned and deserve condemnation (Rom. 3:23). But in mercy, He saves some. And in righteousness, He judges others. This is not injustice—it is sovereign grace and holy justice displayed side by side, “to the praise of His glorious grace” (Eph. 1:6) and “glorious justice” (Rom. 9:22–23).

Paragraph 4:“These angels and men thus predestinated and foreordained, are particularly and unchangeably designed, and their number is so certain and definite, that it cannot be either increased or diminished.”

This removes all doubt and confusion about the nature of God’s election. It is not vague or potential—it is particular, definite, and unchangeable. God knows exactly whom He has chosen, and His choice will not fail. The number is set—not by cold decree, but by perfect wisdom and mercy. John 10:14 tells us Jesus knows His sheep by name. Romans 8:29–30 assures us that those He foreknew, He also predestined, called, justified, and glorified. There is no break in the chain.

Some people fear this truth because they misunderstand it. They worry: “What if I’m not elect?” But Scripture never calls us to try and guess whether we’re in the elect. It calls us to repent and believe the gospel. If you have trusted in Christ, it is because God has drawn you (John 6:44). Your faith is evidence of His eternal purpose. And because His election is unchangeable, your salvation is secure.

It is also worth noting that this paragraph affirms that some angels were predestined to life. While the Bible doesn’t say much about angelic election, it does tell us that God has “chosen angels” (1 Tim. 5:21) and that others, like Satan and his demons, are kept for judgment (2 Pet. 2:4). Even in the unseen realm, God’s decree is wise, just, and sovereign.

Application for the Believer:

Unconditional election humbles the proud and strengthens the weary. You were not chosen because of anything in you—not your goodness, your faith, or your potential—but because of God's grace alone. That truth crushes boasting and fuels worship. And because His decree is unchangeable, you can rest in assurance. Your salvation doesn’t rest on your grip on God but on His eternal grip on you. This truth should lead you to thankfulness, boldness in gospel proclamation, and confidence that God’s saving plan cannot fail. If He began a good work in you, He will surely bring it to completion (Phil. 1:6).