THE ETERNAL PLAN OF GOD AND THE FOUNDATION OF SALVATION
Exploring the Eternal Plan of God: Sharing the Destiny of Christ
Salvation’s Eternal Depths
Salvation is far more than a one-time event or a decision made in a moment. It is a profound, eternal plan that began in the heart of God before time itself. When we think about salvation, we often focus on what we receive here and now—freedom from sin, forgiveness, and a new identity in Christ. Yet, beneath these incredible truths lies a deeper narrative: God’s eternal purpose, meticulously planned and perfectly executed through Jesus Christ.
In this first session, we will journey into the eternal aspects of salvation and explore the foundation upon which our relationship with God is built. This exploration begins with the profound reality that God foreknew, elected, predestined, called, and chose us to share in the destiny of His Son.
1. Foreknown by God: Known Before Time
Acts 2:23, Romans 8:29, and 1 Peter 1:2 reveal a truth that leaves us in awe: we were foreknown by God. The idea of being foreknown is not just about God knowing facts about us in advance—it is a deeply personal and intimate knowledge. It means that God, in His infinite wisdom, chose to set His attention and love on you before the foundation of the world.
Imagine this: before God spoke light into existence, He already had you in mind. Every detail of your life, every challenge you would face, and every victory you would celebrate was known to Him. And more than just knowing, God had already determined to bring you into His family.
This foreknowledge doesn’t depend on your performance or achievements. It is rooted in God’s love and grace. Romans 8:29 beautifully captures this: “For those God foreknew, he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son.” From the very beginning, God’s plan was to mold you into the likeness of Jesus.
2. Elect by God: Chosen for a Purpose
To be elect is to be chosen by God. Romans 8:33, Colossians 3:12, and 1 Thessalonians 1:4 remind us of this incredible truth: we are God’s chosen people. But what does it mean to be elect?
Being chosen is not about favoritism; it is about purpose. In biblical terms, election means being set apart for a divine mission. God’s election is always tied to His redemptive plan. He chooses individuals not just to save them but to work through them to fulfill His greater purpose.
Consider Israel’s story. God chose them, not because of their greatness, but because of His covenant love and purpose. Similarly, God has chosen you, not because of anything you have done, but because He delights in you and has a unique role for you in His kingdom.
When we understand our election, it humbles us. It reminds us that our salvation is entirely God’s work, and it inspires us to live lives worthy of His calling.
3. Predestined: A Destiny Rooted in Love
The concept of predestination often stirs questions. Romans 8:29-30 and Ephesians 1:5, 11 assure us that predestination is not about a cold, impersonal decree—it is about God’s loving plan to bring us into His family.
To be predestined means that God has marked out a specific destiny for you. And what is that destiny? It is to be conformed to the image of His Son and to share in His eternal inheritance. Ephesians 1:5 explains, “In love, he predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ.”
Predestination is rooted in God’s love. Before you were born, He set His sights on you and planned for you to walk in relationship with Him. This is not a plan of coercion but one of grace. God’s predestination invites us into a destiny far greater than we could ever imagine—eternity with Him, transformed into the likeness of Christ.
4. Chosen by God: A Gracious Call
Jesus Himself declared, “Many are called, but few are chosen” (Matthew 22:14). To be chosen by God is an extraordinary privilege. It means that out of His infinite mercy, God extended His grace to you and brought you into His family.
1 Peter 2:4 captures the beauty of this calling: “As you come to him, the living Stone—rejected by humans but chosen by God and precious to him.” In Christ, you are part of something eternal, something precious.
God’s choice of you is not based on your worthiness but on His goodness. He has called you to be His own, not because of what you bring to the table but because of what He has done for you.
5. Called by God: An Invitation to Life
God’s calling is an invitation to step into the life you were created for. 1 Thessalonians 5:24 declares, “The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it.” This calling is not just an event; it is an ongoing relationship where God continually draws you closer to Himself.
When God calls, it is not just a general invitation—it is personal and specific. He knows your name, your story, and your potential. He calls you into a relationship with Him, into His purpose, and into the assurance of His faithfulness.
6. Reconciled: Restored Relationship with God
Reconciliation is a beautiful outcome of God’s eternal plan. 2 Corinthians 5:18-19 declares, “All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation.” Through Christ, the barrier of sin is removed, and the relationship between God and humanity is restored.
Reconciliation is more than forgiveness—it is restoration. It means that the hostility caused by sin has been replaced with peace. It is the embrace of a Father welcoming His child home, the joy of a Creator delighting in His creation.
7. Redeemed: Rescued from Slavery to Sin
To be redeemed means to be bought back. Romans 3:24, Colossians 1:14, and 1 Peter 1:18 remind us that redemption comes at a price—the blood of Jesus. Redemption is not just a transaction; it is an act of love that rescues us from the bondage of sin.
Imagine a slave being set free. That is what Christ has done for us. He has paid the ransom, broken the chains, and declared us free. Redemption is the ultimate declaration of God’s love and the price He was willing to pay to restore us.
8. Condemnation Removed: Freedom in Christ
Romans 8:1 proclaims, “There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” Through salvation, the weight of guilt and condemnation is lifted. You are no longer defined by your failures or sins.
Imagine a courtroom where the guilty verdict is overturned. That is what Christ has done for you. He has taken your place, absorbed the punishment, and declared you innocent. Condemnation is replaced with freedom, guilt with grace, and judgment with joy.
9. Under Grace Instead of Judgment
Romans 3:24-26 reveals that grace triumphs over judgment. Through Christ’s sacrifice, we are no longer under the weight of the law but under the freedom of grace. This grace is unearned, undeserved, and unlimited.
Living under grace means living in the constant assurance of God’s love. It means that even when you stumble, His grace is sufficient to pick you up.
10. Dead to the Old Life, Alive in Christ
Salvation brings a radical transformation. Romans 6:6 declares, “We know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with.” You are no longer bound by your old life—you are alive in Christ.
Through the crucifixion, burial, and resurrection of Christ, you are given new life. This is not just a change in behavior; it is a change in identity. You are no longer a slave to sin but a child of God, empowered to live in victory.
Walking in the Eternal Plan
God’s eternal plan is not just a theological concept—it is a personal reality. He foreknew you, chose you, predestined you, called you, and reconciled you to Himself. Each of these gifts is a treasure, a reminder of His love, and a call to live in the fullness of His grace.
As you walk in the reality of these truths, remember: you are part of something eternal, something greater than yourself. You are loved, chosen, and called by the Creator of the universe. Step into this truth, and let it transform your life.