I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes. . .
Romans 1:16
•Reality of the Gospel
For Thou art my lamp, O LORD;
And the LORD illumines my darkness.
2 Samuel 22:29
Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.
Colossians 3:2-3
•You are Chosen
We give thanks to God always for you all, constantly mentioning you in our prayers, remembering before our God and Father your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ. For we know, brethren beloved by God, that he has chosen you; for our gospel came to you not only in word, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction.
1 Thessalonians 1:2-5a
In Scripture, the topic of election is nearly always introduced for a practical purpose, in order to foster assurance not presumption, holiness not moral apathy, humility not pride, and witness not lazy selfishness. Still no explanation of God’s election is given except God’s love. (Deuteronomy 7:7-8)
Paul unites the love of God and the election of God. He chose us because He loves us, and He loves us because He loves us. He does not love us because we are lovable but only because He is love, and with that mystery, we must rest content.
John Stott
•You are Transformed
May the God of peace who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing His will, and may He work in us what is pleasing to Him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen
Hebrews 13:20-21
But the end of all things is at hand; therefore be serious and watchful in your prayers. And above all things have fervent love for one another, for love will cover a multitude of sins.
1 Peter 4:7-8
Do not be conformed to this world but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that you may prove what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
Romans 12:2