Predestination Controversy? Not Again
Written by Rev. Dr. Scott Paczkowski
“For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many. ”
Last week a relative asked for information on Predestination because members of her church are leaving because the local megachurch is telling them Presbyterians do not believe in free will and have no control over their salvation. Concerns regarding my relative’s church necessitated a detailed explanation of Predestination on her and the need to share a devotion on Predestination with you.
Predestination is not a theological myth created by sinful Presbyterians. “Predestination” is in the Bible and other words like “elect,” “chosen,” and “called” are used synonymously to describe Predestination. Some of those Scripture passages are Deut. 14:2; Isa. 41:8-9; Acts 4:27-28; Acts 13:20; 1 Cor. 2:7; John 15:16; Rom. 8:29-30; Eph. 1:5, 11; 2 Tim.2:10; 1 Pet. 1:1-2. The most systematic presentation of Predestination comes from Romans, chapters 9-11.
What has opened the door to criticism are later interpretations by Augustine (354-430), who introduced the concept of double Predestination. If God has predestined some to salvation, then logic dictates God has also Predestined some to damnation. This idea is termed double Predestination and was echoed by the Reformation Church father, John Calvin (1509-1564). Double Predestination is a misunderstanding of the Biblical Predestination.
Predestination in the Bible and contemporary Presbyterian theology is a gift, providing comfort. We no longer need to fear we’ve not done enough to inherit the kingdom of God. We are assured of our salvation through God’s grace, mercy, and love. Predestination affirms that God is the actor, and we are the passive recipients of God’s gift. We may not like being without control, but God knows it is better than our having to earn salvation. Stop fighting Predestination battles and respond with gratitude for the gift of eternal grace.
