Ephesians chapter 1 is one of the richest passages in the New Testament. Paul opens with praise, declaring that God has “blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places” (Eph. 1:3). But what follows has sparked centuries of debate: What does it mean that God “chose us in Him before the foundation of the world” and “predestined us for adoption”? For some, this is the foundation of Calvinism’s doctrine of unconditional election. For others, it is best understood through a Provisionist lens, highlighting God’s plan for all who are in Christ. Let’s look at both perspectives.
The Calvinist Understanding
Calvinism emphasizes God’s absolute sovereignty and the idea that salvation is entirely His work from beginning to end.
- Election is individual. When Paul says, “He chose us in Him” (v. 4), Calvinists believe God chose specific individuals for salvation before creation. This choice was not based on foreseen faith or human merit—it was solely God’s will.
- Predestination sets destiny. Verse 5, “He predestined us for adoption,” is read as God determining the eternal destiny of the elect. Before you were born, God had already decided your adoption into His family.
- God’s will cannot fail. Verse 11 reinforces that God works “all things according to the counsel of His will.” For Calvinists, this means salvation is certain for the elect because God’s decree is irresistible.
- Faith is a result, not a cause. Believers come to faith because God chose them, not the other way around.
This view highlights the glory of God’s grace: salvation is fully His gift, not dependent on anything we do.
The Provisionist Understanding
Provisionists agree that God is sovereign, but interpret Ephesians 1 differently—through a corporate and Christ-centered lens.
- Election is in Christ. The phrase “He chose us in Him” is the key. God chose Christ before the foundation of the world, and by extension, He chose the body of believers who would be united with Him.
- Predestination is about what, not who. Verse 5 is seen not as God picking which individuals will believe, but as God determining the destiny of those who are in Christ—holiness, adoption, redemption, and inheritance.
- Faith precedes sealing. Verse 13 states, “When you believed, you were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit.” Provisionists stress this order—belief comes first, then sealing.
- Salvation is provided for all. God’s plan is that anyone who responds in faith can be included in Christ and receive the blessings of election.
This view highlights God’s universal provision of salvation and the genuine responsibility of every person to respond.
An Illustration
Imagine a flight. The destination is already set—New York City. That’s predestination.
- The Calvinist perspective: God selected the passengers beforehand.
- The Provisionist perspective: The flight is prepared, the destination is certain, and the invitation is open. Anyone who chooses to board by faith will reach that destination.
Why It Matters
This isn’t just a theological tug-of-war. How we interpret Ephesians 1 shapes our view of God’s character, human responsibility, and the nature of grace.
- Calvinism emphasizes God’s sovereign initiative—He saves whom He wills, and His choice is irresistible.
- Provisionism emphasizes God’s universal provision—He offers salvation to all, and those who believe are included in His eternal plan.
Both perspectives agree on this: salvation is only found in Christ.
Final Thought
So what do you think? Is election about who God chose before time began, or about what God destined for those who are in Christ?Ephesians 1 calls us to marvel at God’s plan of redemption. However we understand election, one truth is clear: God’s purpose is “to unite all things in Him, things in heaven and things on earth” (v. 10). And that’s something worth celebrating.
What’s your perspective? Share your thoughts in the comments below—I’d love to hear from you.