[Scripture Reading: Romans 8:28-39]

A. The biblical doctrine of predestination is one that has been often misinterpreted.

B. Do the Scriptures teach that our eternal fate is sealed before we are born regardless of what we do in this life?

I. The Bible does teach predestination.

A. There are some predestined to be part of the family of God (Romans 8:29-30; Ephesians 1:5-6, 11-12).

B. Those who are predestined by God are those who have been justified by faith (Romans 8:28-30; cf. 5:1).

C. The elect of God (Romans 8:28) are to be found in the Lord’s body (Colossians 3:12; 1:2; 1 Peter 1:18-19; 2:9; 1 Thessalonians 1:4).

D. Are you a part of God’s elect?

II. The Bible also teaches that we have a choice in our salvation.

A. God has always given man a choice (Deuteronomy 30:15-20; Joshua 24:15; 1 Kings 18:21).

B. God rewards the faithful for making good choices (Hebrews 11:25; Luke 10:42).

C. God punishes the unfaithful for making bad choices (Judges 10:13-14; Isaiah 65:1-12; 66:1-4).

D. The choice in your salvation belongs to you alone!

A. Literally from beginning to end, the Bible is full of invitations pleading for man to choose to good and shun the evil.

B. The Lord’s church is on her way to heaven. Will you make the choice to go with her?