Does God really choose (or "elect") those who are to carry out his purposes in history? This noted German theologian believes that he does and here sets out to show why this must be so, and how he does it. First, Pannenberg identi- fies the distinctively Christian element in the doctrine of man as the assertion that man has been reconciled to God through Christ. Hence the true Christian must accept broad social responsibilities. Carrying this theme forward, Pan- nenberg criticizes the classical doctrine of election as limited to abstract individualism. He recognizes the diffi- culty of belief in a God who is active in history, pointing out that such faith requires interpretation of the way God elects individuals, groups, and nations to carry out his purposes. Pannenberg concludes: "The issue of a social order in peace and justice corresponding to the Kingdom of God reemerges as the basic issue in history. It is basic also for the protection of individual freedom."