What is meant by predestination in the Bible?
The English noun, predestination, does not occur in the Bible. The Greek verb translated predestinate occurs only four times in two passages of the Bible (Rom. 8:29, 30; Eph. 1:5, 11). It is used in Acts 4:28 of human determination. The word means to determine before or ordain. On these minimal facts entire systems of doctrine have been built. The word predestinate (proorizo) is closely related to three other more frequently used biblical words: 1. to determine; 2. to elect; 3. to foreknow. Each of these represents several Greek and Hebrew words. Study of these words shows that for a study of predestination the key passages are Romans 8; Ephesians 1; and 1 Peter 1. (1.) exalts the majesty and absolute sovereignty of God, while it illustrates the riches of his free grace and his just displeasure with sin. (2.) It enforces upon us the essential truth that salvation is entirely of grace. That no one can either complain if passed over, or boast himself if saved. (3.) It brings the inquirer
