What Is Predestination?

Introduction

The topic of predestination is a complex and often debated subject in Christian theology. It deals with God’s sovereignty and His plan for humanity. Many people wonder what it means to be predestined and how it relates to free will. Understanding predestination helps us see God’s grace and purpose in our lives. In this article, we will break down what predestination is by looking at five key aspects: God's plan, the role of grace, the purpose of predestination, scripture references, and the assurance in faith.

God’s Plan

Predestination is rooted in the belief that God has a specific plan for each person. In Ephesians 1:4-5, the Bible says, “According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will.” This verse indicates that God, in His infinite wisdom, chose certain people to be part of His family even before creation. Understanding that we are part of this divine plan can bring comfort and hope.

The Role of Grace

Grace is a vital aspect of predestination. It helps us understand that salvation is a gift from God rather than something we can earn. In 2 Timothy 1:9, it says, “Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began.” This means that God’s grace was given to us before the foundation of the world. It emphasizes that our salvation is not based on our actions but on God's undeserved love for us.

Source: Google Image

The Purpose of Predestination

Predestination also serves a purpose in God’s plan. Romans 8:29 states, “For whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified.” This verse shows that God's plan includes not just calling us but also justifying and glorifying us. Predestination assures us that God has a purpose for our lives, leading us to become more like Christ. This process is known as sanctification, where we grow in faith and become more aligned with God’s will.

Scripture References

Several scripture verses discuss predestination. Ephesians 1:5 and Romans 8:29 are significant references, but others also support this concept. Acts 13:48 says, “And when the Gentiles heard this, they were glad, and glorified the word of the Lord: and as many as were ordained to eternal life believed.” This shows that those who are predestined will respond to God’s call. In 1 Peter 1:2, it is written, “Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father,” indicating that God knows in advance who will be part of His family.

Assurance in Faith

Understanding predestination can give believers assurance. Romans 8:38-39 states, “For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” This assurance highlights that if we are predestined, we are secure in our relationship with God. We can trust that nothing can come between us and God’s love.

Conclusion

Predestination is a significant topic that helps us understand God’s sovereignty and grace. By recognizing God's plan, the role of grace, the purpose of predestination, relevant scripture, and the assurance we have in our faith, we can develop a deeper relationship with God. While the concept may seem complex, it ultimately highlights God’s love and desire for us to be part of His family. Embracing predestination encourages us to live in faith, knowing that we are chosen and loved by God.

Frequently asked questions

What is predestination?

Predestination is the belief that God has a specific plan for each individual, choosing some for salvation before the foundation of the world.

What does the term "elect" mean in relation to predestination?

"Elect" refers to those chosen by God for salvation, as mentioned in 1 Peter 1:2, which speaks of being chosen according to God’s foreknowledge.

What are some key scripture references about predestination?

Key verses include Ephesians 1:5, Romans 8:29, and Acts 13:48, all emphasizing God's active role in choosing believers.

What does the Bible say about God's plan in predestination?

Ephesians 1:4-5 states that God chose us in Christ before creation, indicating His divine plan for our lives.

How does grace relate to predestination?

Grace is God's unearned favor, and 2 Timothy 1:9 teaches that our salvation is based on God's grace rather than our works.

What is the purpose of predestination?

The purpose of predestination is to lead us to be conformed to the image of Christ and to fulfill God’s will in our lives, as shown in Romans 8:29.