Writing a bible study to directly address predestination is a specific request that can be framed from certain theological viewpoints, the broader Christian tradition understands that the Bible contains passages that emphasize both God's sovereignty and human free will. A study exploring the biblical perspective on free will is a common approach to address questions about predestination. This study examines scriptures highlighting mankind’s responsibility in salvation.

Bible Study: The freedom to choose

Key Scripture: "The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance" (2 Peter 3:9).

Introduction
Questions about predestination often involve God's justice and fairness. If salvation is predetermined, what is the significance of faith and God's invitation for all to come to him? This study focuses on scriptures that emphasize human freedom to respond to God's love and his desire for everyone to be saved.

Predestined for adoption

Key scripture: Ephesians 1:3–12 (ESV)

Ephesians 1 speaks of God's choice of believers before the world's creation for holiness. God, in love, predestined believers for adoption as sons through Jesus Christ, according to His will. This was done to praise His glorious grace. Through Christ, believers receive redemption, forgiveness, and understanding of God's will to unify everything in Him. We have an inheritance, predestined by God's purpose, so that those who first hoped in Christ might bring praise to His glory.

Discussion questions

• A divine choice (Ephesians 1:4): What does being chosen "before the foundation of the world" reveal about the source of salvation compared to human initiative or merit?
• Predestined for what? (Ephesians 1:5): What is the significance of adoption into God's family, and what privileges does it include?
• The purpose of God's will (Ephesians 1:5, 11): How does knowing predestination is "according to the purpose of his will" provide comfort and security?
• In Christ (Ephesians 1:4, 7, 11): Discuss Jesus Christ's central role as the means for God's plan.
• For His glory (Ephesians 1:6-12): How does understanding predestination inspire worship and giving God credit for salvation?

Key takeaways

1. Predestination is an act of sovereign love. It is a loving plan for adoption into God's family through Christ.
2. Our salvation is secure in God's will. It is based on God's eternal purpose, not human effort.
3. It is Christ-centered. God's plan of predestination is centered on Jesus.
4. It does not negate human responsibility. The Bible affirms both God's sovereignty and the call to "work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you" (Romans 10:9-13).

Observation: What does the text say?

Examine the following passages, considering the questions provided:

1. Deuteronomy 30:19: Focus on the choice presented, who is responsible for it, and the consequences.
2. John 3:16: Consider the extent of God's love and for whom he gave his Son, the condition for eternal life, and whether the invitation is universal.
3. 1 Timothy 2:3-4: Identify God's desire for all people and how this relates to salvation. Reflect on how this verse might be understood alongside the concept of predestination.
4. Revelation 22:17: Observe the invitation from the Spirit and the bride, who is invited, and what "let the one who desires" suggests about human will.

Interpretation: What does the text mean?

These verses collectively highlight the biblical theme of human choice and responsibility in responding to God's grace. Both the Old and New Testaments demonstrate God presenting humanity with invitations and individuals having the freedom to accept or reject them, Isaiah 1:18. While the relationship between God's sovereignty and human will is complex, passages like 2 Peter 3:9 indicate God's patience and his desire for whoever to repent John 3:16.

Application: What does the text mean for us today?

1. Engage actively in your faith. Your relationship with God involves your genuine response, not a predetermined outcome.
2. Trust in God's universal desire for salvation. The biblical invitations in scripture are sincere, reflecting God's character as patient and desiring that none should perish.
3. Acknowledge and pray about resistance. The ability to choose means that people can resist God's will. Pray for those who are resistant, recognizing God's earnest desire for their repentance.

Devotion: You're willing "yes"

Key Scripture: "Then the Spirit and the bride say, 'Come.' And let the one who hears say, 'Come.' And let the one who is thirsty come; let the one who desires take the water of life without price" (Revelation 22:17).

God's invitation is open to all who are thirsty. Salvation is presented as a freely available gift of God for anyone who desires it.

The Bible portrays God actively seeking a relationship, knocking at the door and waiting for a response (Revelation 3:20). The choice to respond is ours.

Understanding that your faith is a free and genuine response to God's love should bring hope. Your commitment is a personal "yes" to God, which emphasizes his love for a willing relationship rather than forced obedience.

Today, consider the freedom God has given you. The choice to follow him is a gift that underscores his desire for a loving relationship. Actively choose to draw closer to him.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of choice, your patience, and your desire for all to be saved. Help us to hear your voice and respond willingly. Empower us to share the good news of your open invitation with others. We pray these things in the mighty name of our Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.