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lacknothing asks:
Why? If someone is "elect" why would they have to hear the preaching of the Gospel? Is that some kind of prerequisite?

lacknothing,

In order to make a point, allow me to shift gears here for a minute and move from God's control over the sphere of Salvation to his control over the sphere of Creation.

Without knowing anything about you, I can confidently state that there was a moment in time, probably several decades ago now, before which you did not exist and after which you did exist.

I am sure you would agree.

Let's call that moment in time "Point X".

I can also confidently state that prior to Point X you--being non-existent--did not exercise any ability to choose at all, but since Point X you have indeed exercised your ability to make choices, according to your nature, among the options open to you.

I am sure you will agree with that as well.

Now my question for you to at least ponder, and hopefully respond to here as well, is:

Lacknothing, do you now exist because, prior to Point X, you chose to exist?

If you answer in the negative--as I am sure you will--here are 2 follow-ups:

Did God choose for you to exist?

and

Was it proper for God to have used human agents--your parents--to bring about his sovereign choice for you to exist?

In Christ,
Paul S