Ephesians 1:11
In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will:
Study Note
Study Note
'In him we have been predestined according to the purpose of him who works all things according to the counsel of his will' — the participial clause 'klērōthentes' (obtained an inheritance / called as a portion) draws on Old Testament election language of Israel as God's 'portion' (Deuteronomy 32:9). The phrase 'works all things according to the counsel of his will' is one of the most comprehensive statements of divine providence in the Pauline corpus, raising perennial debates about compatibilism and the relationship between divine sovereignty and creaturely freedom. Ephesians 1:3–14 is a single extended doxological sentence in Greek, moving from election in eternity past to inheritance in the eschaton, with the Holy Spirit as the seal and guarantee at its conclusion. The verse has been central in Reformed theology as a statement of unconditional election, and in broader discussions about the nature of providential control.
Other Translations
in whom also we were made a heritage, having been foreordained according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his will;
in whom also we did obtain an inheritance, being foreordained according to the purpose of Him who the all things is working according to the counsel of His will,
In whom we have a heritage, being marked out from the first in his purpose who does all things in agreement with his designs;
Cross References
But the Lord hath taken you, and brought you forth out of the iron furnace, even out of Egypt, to …
With him is wisdom and strength, he hath counsel and understanding.
The Lord knoweth the days of the upright: and their inheritance shall be for ever.
Counsel is mine, and sound wisdom: I am understanding; I have strength.
That say, Let him make speed, and hasten his work, that we may see it: and let the counsel of …
This also cometh forth from the Lord of hosts, which is wonderful in counsel, and excellent in working.
Who hath directed the Spirit of the Lord, or being his counsellor hath taught him?
With whom took he counsel, and who instructed him, and taught him in the path of judgment, and taught him …
Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times the things that are not yet done, saying, My counsel …
Calling a ravenous bird from the east, the man that executeth my counsel from a far country: yea, I have …