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Predestination Vs. Foreknowledge


            
            
             It is hard to form an opinion or take on a doctrinal belief of a concept that is often touchy and complex to understanding. The argument concerning foreknowledge and predestination is nothing new, yet when the topic arises, it seems unavoidable disputes are close at hand. The purpose of this manuscript is to attempt to define and explain the difference, if there is one, between foreknowledge and predestination. The easiest way to understand the meaning of any word is to relate back to the original meaning of a word or words that make up a whole.
             Looking back into the original Greek vocabulary, the word "foreknowledge" is a combination of the words "pro" (before) and "ginosko" (to know). Combined, these syllables form "proginosko", which when translated means, "to know beforehand". This word is used approximately five times in the New Testament (Acts 26:5, Romans 8:29; 11:2, 1 Peter 1:20, 2 Peter 3:17). A literal translation of "foreknowledge" is found in Acts 2:23 and 1 Peter 1:2. In these passages, the Greek word "prognosis" ("pro"" + "gnosis") is used. .
             Foreknowledge is a function of the divine characteristic of omniscience, w hereby God anticipates in advance all things that will occur (Isaiah 46:10). In the application of foreknowledge to God, it shows that he has always foreknown everything and does not need to actively acquire information. Romans 8:29 of the New Living Translation states, "For God knew His people in advance, and He chose them to become like His Son, so that His Son would be the firstborn, with many brothers and sisters." This exemplifies God's eternal foresight by which He anticipated all who would believe in Christ. God knew from the very beginning of time who would and would not believe because of their own decision made at the presentation of the Gospel or God's calling. Because of His foreknowledge, God initiates perfect plans for the lives of His children (believers).


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