### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **proorízō**, represented by `{{G4309}}`, means to **limit in advance** or **predetermine**. It appears **7 times** in **6 unique verses** in the Bible. This term specifically conveys the idea of God's predetermined plan, where something is ordained or determined before it happens.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G4309}}` is used to describe God's sovereign plan. It is part of a sequence of redemption, where those God foreknew `{{G4267}}`, He also **predestinated** to be conformed to the image of His Son [[Romans 8:29]]. This act of predestination is followed by calling, justification, and glorification [[Romans 8:30]]. The term also defines the basis for a believer's inheritance and adoption. Believers are **predestinated** unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ, according to the good pleasure of God's will [[Ephesians 1:5]]. This predestination is according to the purpose of Him who worketh all things after the counsel of His own will [[Ephesians 1:11]]. The term is also used to describe the **wisdom** `{{G4678}}` of God, which He **ordained** before the world unto our glory [[1 Corinthians 2:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of God's predetermined will:
* `{{G4267}}` **proginṓskō** (to know beforehand, i.e. foresee): This action precedes predestination, establishing a foundational link in God's redemptive process [[Romans 8:29]].
* `{{G4286}}` **próthesis** (a setting forth, i.e. (figuratively) proposal (intention)): This word highlights that predestination is not random but part of God's deliberate intention for believers [[Ephesians 1:11]].
* `{{G1012}}` **boulḗ** (volition, i.e. (objectively) advice, or (by implication) purpose): This term emphasizes that God's predestination is an expression of His own will and sovereign counsel, which determines what will happen ([[Acts 4:28]], [[Ephesians 1:11]]).
* `{{G2107}}` **eudokía** (satisfaction, i.e. (subjectively) delight, or (objectively) kindness, wish, purpose): This shows that predestination flows from God's good pleasure and delight [[Ephesians 1:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4309}}` is immense. It clarifies the source and purpose of God's redemptive work.
* **Divine Initiative in Salvation:** The usage of `{{G4309}}` shows that salvation is initiated by God. The sequence in [[Romans 8:29-30]], starting with foreknowledge and predestination, places the origin of a believer's journey firmly in God's hands.
* **Conformity to Christ:** A primary goal of predestination is for believers to be conformed to the **image** `{{G1504}}` of God's **Son** `{{G5207}}`. This establishes Jesus as the **firstborn** `{{G4416}}` among many brethren, defining the ultimate destiny for the chosen [[Romans 8:29]].
* **Adoption and Inheritance:** The term is explicitly linked to the believer's new identity and future hope. It is through God's act of having **predestinated** us that believers receive the **adoption of children** `{{G5206}}` and **have obtained an inheritance** `{{G2820}}`, all according to His will ([[Ephesians 1:5]], [[Ephesians 1:11]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4309}}` is a significant theological term that defines God's act of predetermining or ordaining according to His will. It is not an isolated doctrine, but an integral part of His redemptive plan, leading to the adoption of believers, their conformity to the image of Christ, and their ultimate **glory** `{{G1391}}`. It demonstrates that God's plan is purposeful, established before the world began, and carried out through His sovereign counsel.
TRV