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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 Joe! I'm glad you responded! I value your input! I understand your point about the Israel of promise, but I do think that the 'foreknown' of Rom. 11:2 is the nation of Israel. Here's why: 1) Chapter nine opens with the complaint that God is not being fair by rejecting physical Israel. This introduces the whole arguement, which we have discussed before, that God is under to obligation to include people into the spiriual Israel based upon birth alone. 2) This argument continues throughout chapter 10, where Paul makes it clear that Gentiles have become a part of this spiritual Israel through faith, while most of the nation of Israel has rejected Christ. 3) This brings us to chapter 11, where Paul deals with those of Israel who have not accepted Christ. Paul's comments have led to the question of anguish, "Has God rejected His people then?" Paul's response, of course, is no - for there is a remnant. I see the remnant as being a sub-set of the 'foreknown'. The nation still is in view in v. 7, where Paul contrasts the nation with the spiritual Israel (elect). The interesting point though is that even those who are not part of the remnant are held out the possibilty of becoming a part of the spiritual Israel - if they do not continue in their unbelief. 4) Finally, I would say that the focus of chapter 11 is more on those who are rejected, cut-off, ect..., than on the elect - With the emphasis being that God's plan is to have mercy even on them. Years ago, I came across a reference by a commentator named 'Black', who had information that 'foreknown' was some sort of title for Israel. However, I've never been able to track down his book! :-( Well, I'd better go! It was good talking with you again my friend! Your Brother in Christ, Tim Moran |