Predestined

4-24-2009

For the next few devotionals we are going to study the book of Ephesians. Paul’s purpose of writing this book to the church in Ephesus, and to all believers is to create unity in the body of Christ. Paul was in prison at the time for preaching the gospel, thus he couldn’t visit the churches himself.

Paul begins the letter with an importance on the blessing we have to know Christ, thus we have the ability to know God. In chapter 4, Paul says, “For he chose us in him.” In other words, salvation totally depends on God. We do not deserve salvation or grace. Salvation is a gift from God, therefore we should be laced with humility in all we do, say, and think. Paul then begins to discuss “predestination”, a highly debated subject within the Christian community, that I don’t believe was ever meant to be a discussion. The word has simply been misinterpreted, and has done the exact opposite of what Paul was trying to accomplish, church unity!

The word “predestined” has literally created divisions in churches and new denominations within the Christian community. Some argue that God “predestined” certain people to heaven or hell, while others feel that God gives us free will to accept Christ. I am giving you the shortened version of this argument to save us time, but this argument is partially created by differing interpretations of the bible. From my understanding, when looking back at the original writings, God clearly gives us free will to choose to accept Christ as our Lord and savior. “Predestined” comes into play in that before we were born, God sent his one and only son to die on the cross for our sins, and by the Grace of God we are born into the free gift of salvation if we so choose. Regardless of what side of the fence you choose to lie on, the reality is you either believe in Christ or you don’t. Let’s not waste time judging people, but instead focus on sharing the word of God and the message of salvation! Remember, no one wins an argument, and over one little word, “predestined”, churches have been split and new denominations have been formed. We don’t have to agree with what every thinks and we aren’t going to agree with what everyone thinks. The great news is we aren’t called to. God calls us to love one another, not judge one another!

Application:
1. Read Ephesians 1: 1-6
2. Do you spend more time arguing over your views or doing what Christ calls us to do, love people for who Christ made them.