Ephesians 1:5 – Predestinated

Ephesians 1:5 (KJV)

“Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will”

The unfortunate thing about the translation of this verse is that it can lead one to believe that those who are saved are already determined before birth. This can be slightly disheartening to some, as it would seem it doesn’t matter what our choices are in life, our destiny is set. Additionally, some may claim this verse to be a justification of Calvinism.

So, let’s make sure that this is what Paul is truly saying.

While “pre-destined” may imply that each of the children who are given to Christ are already chosen in advance, it’s the placement of the word that leaves us a little confused. However, in reality this verse is not speaking of the believers being predestined, but Yeshua Himself being predestined from the foundation of the world.

This is another version which takes it from the Greek-Hebrew to help give us a better understanding:

“He determined in advance that through Yeshua the Messiah we would be his sons — in keeping with his pleasure and purpose” ~ (CJB)

As we can clearly see it’s not the believers who are predestined, but rather the plan of redemption via Yeshua. As Peter states in 1 Peter 1:20, it is Yeshua who was foreordained. Therefore, the plan has been set from the beginning for us to be “adopted” by Christ for Himself.

This shows us the grace and mercy our Elohim has for both His Son and for His Son’s servants.

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