Foreknowledge, Predestination, Election

Calling takes place in time, but this is antedated in the divine order by predestination and election. Our path as believers, unlike that of Abraham, is a heavenly calling: "For our conversation [commonwealth, citizenship, political rights] is in heaven" (Phil. 3:2020For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ: (Philippians 3:20)). In Abraham we meet one who rises far above the path of mere earthly citizenship. He is a stranger and pilgrim, one unknown and yet well-known, desiring a "better country, that is, an heavenly" (Heb. 11:1616But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city. (Hebrews 11:16)).