Introduction
Does God predestine some people for heaven and others for hell? It’s a question that has sparked debates among believers for centuries. Understanding predestination and election is essential for every Christian, as these doctrines shape our view of salvation and God’s sovereignty. Today, let’s explore what the Bible says about these topics, examining the meaning of predestination and election and how they fit into God’s divine plan for you and me.
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Ignorance Is No Excuse
As preacher A.W. Tozer once said, “Satan’s greatest weapon is man’s ignorance of God’s Word.” The Bible is clear that ignorance will not be a valid excuse on Judgment Day. Romans 1:20 reminds us that God’s invisible attributes, eternal power, and divine nature have been clearly seen since the creation of the world, leaving humanity without excuse: “For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse.”
Jesus Himself stated in John 8:24, “Therefore I said to you that you will die in your sins; for unless you believe that I am He, you will die in your sins.” This makes the matter of understanding God’s will for salvation urgent.
What Is Predestination?
The doctrine of predestination looks forward to the destiny that God has planned for those He has chosen. Ephesians 1:5 tells us, “He predestined us to adoption as sons through Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the kind intention of His will…” This means that God, in His wisdom and mercy, has a plan for the lives of His elect.
Predestination, as seen in the Bible, is not about human will but about God’s divine will. Acts 4:28 (“to do whatever Your hand and Your purpose predestined to occur”) highlights that God predestined the events of history, including the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, according to His eternal plan. As followers of Christ, understanding that God has written all of history can bring great comfort.
The Doctrine of Election
When we talk about election, we refer to God choosing certain people to be His children before the formation of the world. Ephesians 1:4 says, “…just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we would be holy and blameless before Him.” God’s concept may be difficult for some to accept, but it is rooted in Scripture.
Election and predestination are Bible-based doctrines. The Greek word for predestined, proorizo, appears six times in the New Testament, while the word for elect, eklektos, appears eight times. These terms emphasize God’s sovereignty in salvation and His ultimate control over all creation.
Understanding God’s Sovereignty
God’s sovereignty means that He rules over everything He has created. The Bible teaches that He alone has the power to predestine events, choose His people, and bring His plan to fruition. Isaiah 48:3 says, “I declared the former things long ago And they went forth from My mouth, and I proclaimed them. Suddenly I acted, and they came to pass.“ This passage and others (see Jeremiah 10) reveal God’s authority over all things, including the future. He predestines events and brings them to pass according to His will, not by human effort.
Is Predestination Unfair?
Some may struggle with the idea that God elects certain people for salvation. It can feel like it limits human free will. However, the Bible also emphasizes human responsibility. John MacArthur once pointed out that while God elects, people are still held accountable for their decisions. Rejecting the gospel has consequences, but those who come to salvation do so by God’s power.
This dual truth of God’s sovereignty and human responsibility may be difficult to reconcile in our finite minds, but it is clearly laid out in Scripture. If you are saved, it is by God’s grace; if you reject salvation, it is by your own will. Romans 11:33 says, “Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and unfathomable His ways!”
Call to Salvation
Friend, if you haven’t accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, now is the time. You cannot save yourself by good works or rituals—salvation is a gift of God’s grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8-9). If you feel a stirring in your heart, it could be God drawing you closer. Pray, ask for forgiveness, and invite Christ into your life. There’s no second chance to do so after death.
Conclusion: God Can Save Anybody
The story of Saul, who became the Apostle Paul, reminds us that God can save anyone. Paul was a murderer and persecutor of Christians before God transformed him into one of the greatest apostles. If God can use Paul, He can use you, too. No matter your past, God offers salvation to all who believe.
If you’ve accepted Christ, know that your salvation is secure. As Jesus said in John 10:27-29, “My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me; and I give eternal life to them, and they will never perish; and no one will snatch them out of My hand. “My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father’s hand.”
Call to Action
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