adoption “to himself” (εἰς αὐτόν). This ties in with love as the basis for his predestinating act and reinforces the idea that he views his people as his own glorious inheritance (Eph 1:18). The final purpose of election is then relational. God is bringing together a people whom he can delight in and enjoy. Why does Paul choose to elaborate on election and commend this truth to the readers? It could be, as some have suggested, that he is in a more pensive mood with extra time on his hands as he