ELECTION
From the Greek word (ek-log-ay') translated “election”, means to choose or select. A common example of election is that of a political campaign, wherein voters decide their preference based upon the candidate's platform. Their selection is based upon whether or not the candidate is viewed as being beneficial to them. This is an example of conditionally based election. However unlike mankind, God's choosing of those whom He has placed in a position of favor (the elect) is based solely upon His sovereign will, and is completely unconditional. There was no criteria other than it pleased God to do so according to His plan and purpose. Those who are His elect were chosen in eternity, therefore God was not influenced by any of our thoughts or actions (Ephesians 1:4; 2 Thessalonians 2:13).
The position of favor is effectuated by God
alone. It was the sovereignty of God which predetermined whether one
is a vessel of mercy (the elect) or a vessel or wrath the non
elect). (Romans 9:21-22).Whether or not one is a vessel of wrath or
a vessel of mercy, has nothing to do with ones manifestation of good
or evil, thus at no time does our position of favor with God rest in
the control of depraved man.