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Abundant Life in the Son: A Study of Salvation

The simple meaning of the word foreknow is “to know beforehand.”
Paul clearly shows in Romans 8:28–30 that the divine order is first
foreknowledge, then foreordination (predestination). Peter likewise
states that foreknowledge determines election (1 Peter 1:2). These
Scriptures affirm that God foreknows, then He elects, and finally He
carries out His purpose (foreordination).

The question then arises: What did God know beforehand about
those mentioned in Romans 8:29? There is no indication in this passage.
However, in view of the overall teaching of Scripture concerning
people’s real participation in salvation (through their faith), we take
foreknowledge to mean God’s foreknowledge of people’s faith. Thus God
foreordains “whoever chooses”
to be saved. This plan is broad
enough to include everybody who
Outside the door of wants to be saved. This truth has
salvation one reads been explained by the following
illustration: Outside the door of
“Whoever chooses salvation one reads the words,
may come;” however, “Whoever chooses may come”;
however, when one enters the
when one enters the door and is saved, he or she reads

door and is saved, the words, “Elect according to the
foreknowledge of God.”
one reads the words,

“Elect according to the Because of His foreknowledge,
God knew in advance who would
foreknowledge of God.” respond to His offer of salvation
and continue to serve Christ. He
foreordained them to an eternal
inheritance. He foreknew their choice and eternal destiny, but He did
not decide for them.

Foreordination in the Bible

Proorizo (foreordain or predestine) occurs six times in the New
Testament. In each instance it means “to determine” or “to decide
beforehand.” As we focus on the verses in the following paragraph, let’s
consider what or whom God has foreordained. This exercise will help us
see more clearly the truth of foreordination.

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