Predestined for Adoption: God’s Will Makes Sons, Not Slackers

Predestination does not lead to antinomianism. The idea that morality does not matter but to a call to an increasingly sanctified life. Calvin also highlights predestination to adoption as children. We are huthesia. adoption as children. Here Paul uses a Roman legal metaphor. The adoption of children was an act that conferred full rights and privileges. Predestination is not merely for salvation but for divine son-ship, for an intimate relationship of child with father. This demonstrates that election is not merely a matter of rescue from sin but of a personal and familial relationship with God. The good pleasure of his will to do is the expression that encapsulates absolute divine sovereignty. Calvin insists that God’s will is not arbitrary or capricious. It is wise, just and good. The divine will is a manifestation of his glory. Doxes demonstrating that all predestination aims at God’s glorification. For Calvin, understanding this doctrine is essential to mature Christian faith. Election does not lead us to fatalism, but to grateful praise.