One of the commitments I made when I began to do this series of blogs was simply to the best of my understanding explain passages from the Bible in a way that those who may not be familiar with the Bible might appreciate. I also committed that I would not push my interpretation of the text where good and reputable Christian theologians may dispute the interpretation. Where different views on a passage of Scripture may conflict, I represent both views and let the reader decide for themselves.In Colossians 3, Paul calls the brethren in the church of Colossae the "elect of God." This statement refers to those God has chosen for salvation, also called predestination. The word "eklekti" means "chosen" or "elect," and it is derived from the verb "eklegomai," which means "to choose out" or "to select." The phrase "elect of God" is found throughout the New  ...