Topical Encyclopedia The term "fore-appoint" refers to the divine act of appointing or determining something in advance. This concept is closely related to the theological doctrines of predestination and election, which are significant in understanding God's sovereignty and His eternal plan for creation and salvation.Biblical Usage and Context The idea of fore-appointment is rooted in the understanding that God, in His omniscience and omnipotence, has predetermined certain events and outcomes according to His divine will and purpose. This is evident in several passages throughout the Bible, where God's foreknowledge and preordained plans are highlighted. Key Scriptures 1. Romans 8:29-30 : "For those God foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brothers. And those He predestined, He also called; those He called, He also justified; those He justified, He also glorified." This passage underscores the sequence of God's fore-appointment, beginning with foreknowledge and leading to glorification, emphasizing the certainty and purposefulness of God's plan for believers. 2. Ephesians 1:4-5 : "For He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless in His presence. In love He predestined us for adoption as His sons through Jesus Christ, according to the good pleasure of His will." Here, the Apostle Paul speaks of God's fore-appointment of believers to holiness and adoption, highlighting the eternal nature of God's plan and His loving intention. 3. Acts 4:27-28 : "In fact, in this city Herod and Pontius Pilate conspired with the Gentiles and the people of Israel against Your holy servant Jesus, whom You anointed. They carried out what Your hand and will had decided beforehand would happen." This passage illustrates the fore-appointment of events surrounding the crucifixion of Jesus, demonstrating that even human actions are encompassed within God's sovereign plan. Theological Implications The concept of fore-appointment is integral to understanding the nature of God's sovereignty and His relationship with creation. It affirms that God is actively involved in the unfolding of history and that His purposes are ultimately fulfilled despite human actions. This doctrine provides assurance to believers that their salvation and sanctification are secure in God's eternal plan. Fore-appointment and Human Responsibility While the doctrine of fore-appointment emphasizes God's sovereignty, it does not negate human responsibility. Scripture consistently upholds the tension between divine sovereignty and human free will, affirming that individuals are accountable for their choices and actions. The mystery of how these truths coexist is a profound aspect of Christian theology, inviting believers to trust in God's wisdom and justice. Conclusion The concept of fore-appoint is a profound testament to the depth of God's wisdom and the certainty of His purposes. It invites believers to rest in the assurance of God's eternal plan, knowing that He works all things according to the counsel of His will (Ephesians 1:11). Concordance Fore-appoint (2 Occurrences)Romans 8:29 Romans 8:30 Thesaurus Fore-appoint (2 Occurrences)Fore-appoint. Fore-announced, Fore-appoint. Forearms . Multi-Version Concordance Fore-appoint (2 Occurrences). Romans ... /f/fore-appoint.htm - 7k Forearms (1 Occurrence) Fore-announced (1 Occurrence) Glorify (49 Occurrences) Resources Was it wrong for the Israelites to ask for a king? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about church hierarchy? | GotQuestions.org What is historic premillennialism? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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