1.Who are the “elect”? (2Pet 1:10)

“10Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall.”

See the word “diligence”? The Greek word is σπουδάζω,(spoo-dad’-zo), which means hasten, eager, zealous.

See the word “calling”? It is the word κλῆσις,(klay’-sis), which means a calling, an invitation; when it is used in the NT, it always of a divine call.

See the word “election”? It is the word ἐκλογή,(ek-log-ay’), which means a (divine) choosing out, or a selecting, a choice (by God).

In this passage, Peter refers to CHRISTians as the “elect.” However, our Lord Jesus also refers to Israel as the elect.

“24For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.” (Matt. 24:24)

In this passage, Jesus is talking to His disciples who were Jews.

2.Why are they the “elect”? (Rom 9:10)

“And not only this; but when Rebecca also had conceived by one, even by our father Isaac; 11(For the children being not yet born, neither having done any good or evil, that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works, but of him that calleth;) 12It was said unto her, The elder shall serve the younger. 13As it is written, Jacob have I loved, but Esau have I hated.”

Because of God’s sovereign selection, Israel was chosen. In Jacob’s case, our omniscient Lord knew that Jacob would be broken and turn to Him. Whereas, Esau would live for his own self indulgence. Our Lord chooses but He gives us a free will to reject or accept Him (John 1:12).