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NASB | Ephesians 1:4 just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we would be holy and blameless before Him. In love |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | Ephesians 1:4 just as [in His love] He chose us in Christ [actually selected us for Himself as His own] before the foundation of the world, so that we would be holy [that is, consecrated, set apart for Him, purpose-driven] and blameless in His sight. In love |
Subject: Predestination |
Bible Note: Greetings Jensen! To me, the Biblical way of understanding predestination is as a reference to God's eternal plan of salvation. Thus, it doesn't refer to determining who will be saved, but to the circumstances of salvation. There is no verse which says that some are predestined to salvation while others are not. The word is found in only six verses (Act 4:28, Rom. 8:29 and 30, 1 Cor. 2:7, Eph. 1:5 and 11). Of these six verses, only four describe individuals as being predestined (Rom. 8:29 and 30, and Eph. 1:5 and 11). The Ephesian passage is written to believers and never says that anyone else is excluded from God's plan. While the Romans passage appears to be a description of God's plan for the Jews, not a general reference. Why do I say that? Look at the word 'forknew'. It is only used in Romans and only in 8:29 and 11:2. 11:2 is clearly a reference to Israel. An interesting point is that some of those whom He foreknew (Israel) did not receive salvation, according to Rom. 11. Thus, predestination doesn't seem to refer to an individuals fate, but rather to God's overall plan and purpose of salvation. Just me two cents worth! :-) Your Brother in Christ, Tim Moran |