actions of choosing and predestining occur at the same time with no apparent sequence. Although the verb “predestine” (προορίζω) is popular in theological discussions, it is actually rare in biblical literature, appearing only six times in the NT (twice here) and never in the LXX, Josephus, Philo, the Greek Pseudepigrapha, or the Apostolic Fathers. The etymology and usage of the word suggest that it means “to decide upon beforehand” and, thus, “to predetermine.”17 Our surest guide to its meaning