Why does God choose a covenant people if He loves all?

Question

Gramps,

Why does God choose a covenant people? If he loves all of his children, why pick just one people?

Jeff

Answer

Jeff,

Throughout the scriptures, the theme of covenant is woven into the fabric of God’s relationship with His children. A covenant can be understood as a sacred agreement between God and His people, where promises are made, and responsibilities are outlined. But why does God choose a covenant people? This question invites us to explore the divine purposes behind these sacred agreements, the significance of the Abrahamic covenant, and the implications for believers today.

The Abrahamic covenant stands as a cornerstone in understanding why God chooses a covenant people. This covenant, initiated with Abraham, is not just a historical event but a divine promise that extends to all believers. In Genesis 12:1-3, God promises Abraham that he will be the father of a great nation, that his descendants will be numerous, and that through them, all families of the earth will be blessed. This covenant establishes a lineage of faith, linking believers to a legacy of divine blessing and responsibility.

The significance of the Abrahamic covenant lies in its inclusivity. It reaches beyond Abraham’s physical descendants to encompass all who choose to follow God’s commandments and embrace the gospel of Jesus Christ. The Apostle Paul, in Galatians 3:29, affirms this by stating,“And if ye be Christ’s, then are ye Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.” Thus, being part of a covenant people means inheriting the blessings promised to Abraham, including spiritual guidance, protection, and the promise of eternal life.

In modern times, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints teaches that the restoration of the gospel through Joseph Smith is a fulfillment of the Abrahamic covenant. The doctrine emphasizes that God continues to gather His covenant people in the latter days, inviting all to partake in the blessings of the gospel. The Doctrine and Covenants provides crucial insights into the nature of this restoration, as seen in D&C 1:17-18, where God states that He is calling His people to repentance and will send forth His word.

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