http://www.intothyword.org/apps/articles/default.asp?blogid=3844&view=post&articleid=35965&link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0
What is predestination? The key words of chosen, elect, foreknew, and predestined have been topics of hot debate amongst many Christian groups over the centuries. The principle theme is agreed upon, that God does choose us and makes us holy-to which our eternal destination is preordained.
http://www.intothyword.org/apps/articles/default.asp?blogid=3844&view=post&articleid=76132&link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0
In Matthew 10:34-42, Jesus calls us to take up the cross. This passage goes against the grain of most Christian mindsets, just as it did when Jesus first gave it. Yet, it is essential for us to understand who we are in Christ and allow His empowerment to come into our relationships. What does this mean? How does this affect my relationship with God, my relationship with self and with others?