Note 8 at Eph. 1:5: The Greek word that was translated "predestinated" here was only used four times in scripture. Two of those times were here in the first chapter of Ephesians and the other two times were in Romans 8:29-30. Predestination and foreknowledge go hand in hand and there are detailed notes on these words at Romans 8:29 on p. 801-802. A misunderstanding of predestination being based on God's foreknowledge has led some people to believe God predestines some to damnation. That is not so (see note 3 at Rom. 9:11, p. 805). Also see note 11 at Jn. 12:39, p. 419 and note 1 at Lk. 22:22, p. 480 for more information on predestination.

Note 9 at Eph. 1:5: "Adoption" was a term used only by the apostle Paul in scripture. It found it's roots in Roman culture rather than of the Jews. Through adoption old ties were severed and the new father now became full owner of the child with all legal rights. In Rome a slave could have the full rights of that of a Roman citizen through adoption. Through adoption the believer now has had all ties severed from his old master and has now become the property of His heavenly Father as an heir and joint-heir with Jesus Christ.

Note 10 at Eph. 1:5: The Lord didn't just save us out of pity or a sense of obligation as our Creator. He saved us because He loved us (Jn. 3:16). It was the "good pleasure of his will" for us to become adopted sons. We are wanted and accepted (v. 6) by our Father!