Romans 8.28-30 Predestination

And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. For those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brethren; and these whom He predestined, He also called; and these whom He called, He also justified; and these whom He justified, He also glorified.Romans 8:28‭-‬30 NASB

Theologians love to argue about the question of free will versus predestination. In fact, entire denominations have split off over the subject. I think arguing over such things is a waste of time. But, since it is presented here in this passage, I will do my best to explain my understanding of the paradox.

We absolutely have free will.

We are absolutely predestined.

Throughout the New Testament we are given the option to believe or not believe, to obey or to not obey. John 1.12 says, "But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, even to those who believe in His name"

On the other hand, it is clear that God has chosen us. Ephesians 1.4 says, "just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we would be holy and blameless before Him."

So, How do I reconcile these two trains of thought? First, I don't think of them as opposite opinions, but as different perspectives.

If you are a believer, then God has chosen you to be adopted into His household. But he has given you the option to choose whether you will accept his adoption, or reject it.

God has chosen a path for your life, but He won't make you walk down it. You may still choose your own path in defiance of God.

So you are predestined, but you may freely choose accept His predestination, or choose your own destination apart from God.

In the end, these arguments are pointless. If you believe in free will with no predestination, then make your choice to accept Jesus as your Lord, and follow Him with all your heart. If you believe in predestination with no free will, then rejoice that you are one of the chosen, and respond to His choice by following Him with all your heart.

Whether you are predestined or not will not change the status of you salvation, nor will it affect your sanctification. Arguing over such things causes divisions in the church. And worrying about it diverts you from your service to God.