Why Some Believe and Others Don’t

As Many As Were Ordained Unto Eternal Life Believed; Why Didn’t Others Believe? Could It Be That They Aren’t Ordained to Eternal Life? Will God Just Send Them to Hell? – Lessons from Acts 13:48 for Faith and Daily Living

Acts 13:48 reads, “And when the Gentiles heard this, they were glad, and glorified the word of the Lord: and as many as were ordained to eternal life believed.” This verse stirs questions about predestination, free will, and the path to eternal life in the Christian faith. Let’s unpack these questions and explore how believers today can find comfort, guidance, and encouragement in its message.

1. Understanding Predestination and Free Will

One of the greatest challenges in Christianity is reconciling the concepts of God’s sovereignty and human free will. Does God choose some to believe while leaving others to disbelief? Or, as some might fear, does He condemn others to hell with no opportunity for salvation?

The word “ordained” in Acts 13:48 refers to God’s eternal knowledge and His plans for those who will receive eternal life. But this doesn’t mean God’s love is restricted. John 3:16 assures us, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” God’s love and grace are freely available to all, yet individuals still have the responsibility to respond to God’s call.

2. Finding Hope in God’s Sovereignty

For many, the idea that some are “ordained” or chosen can be comforting. It speaks of a God who is deeply involved in our lives and who has a plan for each person. Jeremiah 29:11 reminds us, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

Knowing that God has a plan for each of us can be a great source of strength, especially during difficult times. This belief doesn’t mean life will be free of hardship, but it assures us that God is with us, guiding us through every challenge. When we understand that our lives are under God’s care, we can live with a sense of peace, even amidst uncertainty.

3. Why Didn’t Others Believe?

Some may ask, “Why didn’t others believe?” or “Could it be that they aren’t ordained for eternal life?” In 2 Peter 3:9, we learn, “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead, he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” This verse reflects God’s desire for everyone to be saved, suggesting that unbelief isn’t a matter of exclusion but rather of an invitation not yet accepted.

Example: Consider someone who, despite hearing the gospel many times, has not yet come to faith. Perhaps they’ve experienced hurt, loss, or a series of personal trials that make belief in God difficult. In these cases, it’s not about them being unchosen but about their personal journey and the circumstances that may shape their readiness to accept God’s love.

As believers, we can take actionable steps to nurture faith in ourselves and support others who may be struggling in their journey.

4. Practical Ways to Strengthen Faith and Embrace God’s Love

Here are specific, actionable ways to help deepen your faith and stay close to God’s purpose for your life.

A. Start Your Day with Prayer and Meditation

Pray for God’s guidance and invite His peace into your heart. Philippians 4:13 says, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Reflecting on this verse each morning can be a powerful way to align your mindset with God’s strength.
Practice meditative prayer. Take 5-10 minutes of quiet reflection, focusing on Bible verses like Psalm 23 and allowing God’s words to settle into your soul.

B. Lean on Scripture for Comfort and Encouragement

When you’re struggling with faith, seek comfort in God’s Word. Passages like Romans 8:38-39, which says, “Nothing can separate us from the love of God,” are powerful reminders of His constant presence.
Make a list of Bible verses that resonate with you, and keep it handy. Return to these verses in moments of doubt or hardship.

C. Find Community Support

Surround yourself with others who share your faith. Joining a small group, Bible study, or Christian fellowship can be life-changing. In community, you’ll find people who can pray with you, encourage you, and remind you of God’s promises when you’re struggling.
Many churches offer online devotionals and prayer resources; these can provide daily encouragement and keep you spiritually grounded.

D. Embrace Faith in Action

Faith isn’t only about beliefs; it’s also about actions. By helping others, we reflect God’s love in practical ways. Volunteer opportunities within the church or community offer a way to live out your faith.
As James 2:17 says, “Faith without works is dead.” Consider ways to make your faith tangible—through kindness, service, or even a small gesture of encouragement to someone in need.

E. Practice Forgiveness and Love for Others

Colossians 3:13 instructs us to “bear with each other and forgive one another.” Reflecting God’s forgiveness in our relationships is a powerful way to bring His love into the world.
Pray for the strength to forgive and love, even when it’s difficult. This can help free you from resentment and draw you closer to God’s peace.

5. Trusting God’s Purpose and Overcoming Fear of Judgment

Many wrestle with fear when contemplating eternity, but the Bible provides reassurance. Romans 8:1 declares, “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” God is not looking for reasons to condemn but longs to save and redeem.

Perfecting Holiness and Hating Evil: God’s call to “hate evil” (Proverbs 8:13) and pursue holiness is about aligning ourselves with His character. When we hate evil, we’re essentially rejecting what distances us from God’s love and embracing a life that honors Him. By striving to “perfect holiness,” we reflect God’s love in our thoughts, actions, and decisions.

6. Real-Life Story of Faith in Action: The Power of Hope

Consider a story of faith, like that of Elizabeth, a woman who faced many personal hardships, including illness and financial struggles. Initially, she struggled to believe in God’s love amid her challenges. But as she surrounded herself with faithful friends, engaged in prayer, and committed to reading the Bible daily, her heart softened. Gradually, her life transformed. Elizabeth’s story illustrates that faith can be strengthened and renewed even when doubt once reigned.

Lesson: Like Elizabeth, when we seek God through prayer, community, and Scripture, we begin to see His hand even in our darkest times. The message of hope and redemption is central to our faith journey and something we must actively nurture.

7. Steps for Applying Faith Daily

Let’s conclude with a few practical steps to keep faith alive in daily life:

Keep a gratitude journal: Write down moments where you see God’s blessings.
Set aside time for Scripture and reflection: Even 15 minutes can make a difference.
Speak words of faith: Practice saying aloud verses like Psalm 23:1, “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want,” to remind yourself of God’s provision.
Remember to rest in God’s love: Trust that He will guide you, as Philippians 4:6-7 tells us to “not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”

Conclusion: Faith as a Daily Journey

Faith is a journey, not a one-time event. Acts 13:48 encourages us to remember that belief is both a divine mystery and a choice. Embrace faith daily, trusting in God’s love, forgiveness, and strength to carry you through life’s challenges. If you’re struggling with doubts, know that God’s heart is open, patient, and always inviting you to come closer.

Through prayer, community, and Scripture, we are reminded that we are never alone. God’s call to eternal life is a promise, and as we walk with Him, we find strength, purpose, and peace, growing in the assurance of His everlasting love.