Topical Encyclopedia Predestination is a theological concept that refers to God's foreordaining of all events and outcomes, particularly concerning the salvation of individuals. Within the biblical narrative, the life of Jacob serves as a significant example of predestination, illustrating God's sovereign choice and purpose.Jacob's Election Jacob, the son of Isaac and Rebekah, is a central figure in the discussion of predestination. Before Jacob and his twin brother Esau were born, God revealed His sovereign choice to Rebekah. In Genesis 25:23 , the Lord declares, "Two nations are in your womb, and two peoples from within you will be separated; one people will be stronger than the other, and the older will serve the younger." This pronouncement indicates God's predetermined plan for Jacob to be the heir of the covenant promises, despite being the younger son. The Apostle Paul references this event in Romans 9:10-13 to illustrate the doctrine of election: "Not only that, but Rebekah’s children were conceived by one man, our father Isaac. Yet before the twins were born or had done anything good or bad, in order that God’s purpose in election might stand, not by works but by Him who calls, she was told, 'The older will serve the younger.' So it is written: 'Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated.'" This passage underscores that God's choice of Jacob was not based on human merit or actions but solely on His divine will and purpose. Jacob's Life and God's Sovereignty Throughout Jacob's life, the theme of predestination is evident as God orchestrates events to fulfill His promises. Jacob's acquisition of Esau's birthright and blessing, though achieved through deceit, aligns with God's predetermined plan. In Genesis 28:13-15 , God reaffirms His covenant with Jacob in a dream, saying, "I am the LORD, the God of your father Abraham and the God of Isaac. I will give you and your descendants the land on which you now lie. Your descendants will be like the dust of the earth, and you will spread out to the west and to the east, to the north and to the south. All the families of the earth will be blessed through you and your offspring. Look, I am with you, and I will watch over you wherever you go, and I will bring you back to this land. For I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you." Despite Jacob's flaws and failures, God's sovereign plan prevails. Jacob's transformation into Israel, the father of the twelve tribes, further demonstrates God's ability to fulfill His purposes through chosen individuals. Jacob's wrestling with God in Genesis 32:28 results in a new identity and a reaffirmation of his role in God's redemptive plan: "Then the man said, 'Your name will no longer be Jacob, but Israel, because you have struggled with God and with men and have prevailed.'" Theological Implications Jacob's account highlights the mystery and majesty of divine predestination. It affirms that God's election is based on His sovereign will rather than human merit. This narrative challenges believers to trust in God's purposes, recognizing that His plans are beyond human understanding and control. Jacob's life serves as a testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises, regardless of human frailty and imperfection. Nave's Topical Index Romans 9:12,13It was said to her, The elder shall serve the younger. Nave's Topical Index Library Predestination to Eternal Life is Wholly of God's Free Grace. Predestination and the Justice of God Whether Predestination Can be Furthered by the Prayers of the ... Whether Predestination Can be Furthered by the Prayers of the ... Predestination. (I, xviii, Etc. ) Whether Prophecy is Fittingly Divided into the Prophecy of Divine ... Jacob and Esau Of Predestination The Consensus of Geneva. AD 1552. Jacob Boehme: his Life and Spirit Resources What is predestination? Is predestination biblical? | GotQuestions.orgHow are predestination and election connected with foreknowledge? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about predestination vs. free will? | GotQuestions.org Predestination: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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