When the Gentiles heard this, they began rejoicing and glorifying the word of the Lord; and as many as had been appointed to eternal life believed.

Acts 13:48

Acts 13:48 is often referenced by Calvinists to support their concept of unconditional election. They typically focus on the final phrase of the verse, “been appointed to eternal life believed,” which seems to bolster their viewpoint at first glance. Nevertheless, a more thorough examination reveals a different interpretation. It’s essential to analyse the key term, τεταγμένοι (tetagmenoi), translated as “appointed.” This Greek term is a verb in the perfect passive form, plural and masculine of τάσσω (tassō). Its literal interpretation includes “to arrange, assign, determine, or devote.” Since tetagmenoi is middle rather than passive, a more precise translation would be “disposed” or “inclined.” This suggests that the Gentiles mentioned in the verse were already open to the salvation message, which explains their belief.

The passage indicates that the Jewish authorities dismissed the message and reacted negatively to it. In contrast, the Gentiles were open to the Gospel. However, Luke does not explain why these Gentiles aligned themselves with God. Additionally, this verse does not address the complex issue of divine sovereignty versus human free will. There is no indication that Luke implied an absolute decree regarding personal salvation.

The context of Acts 13:42-48 suggests that individuals who were open to the Gospel willingly accepted the message, whereas those who were resistant turned it down. The text does not endorse the idea of a predetermined divine plan for salvation. Instead, it highlights the voluntary response of those ready to embrace the truth. This interpretation is consistent with other parts of Scripture, indicating that God desires for everyone to be saved and to attain the knowledge of the truth (1 Tim. 2:4). It also supports the belief that whosoever calls on the name of the Lord will be saved (Rom. 10:13). If Acts 13:48 suggested that God chose specific people while leaving others out, it would be at odds with the verses above and many those verses and passages of Scripture that teach God’s desire for all men to be saved. However, once we interpret tetagmenoi as indicating a personal inclination towards the truth, everything falls into place.

What is the conclusion? Acts 13:48 does not endorse the deterministic perspective of election according to Calvinism. Rather, it affirms the concept of positive volition—individuals who are already predisposed to accept the truth chose to believe when it was presented. There is no force involved, nor is there a predetermined faith. Eternal life is readily available, but it is the will of man that influences the final outcome. God is not a cosmic aggressor, imposing salvation upon a chosen few while excluding others. He has made eternal life accessible to everyone (John 3:16; 1 Tim. 2:4; 2 Pet 3:9). Anyone who desires it can receive it—provided they have faith in Christ. Salvation is granted solely by grace through faith in Christ. There are no tricks, no hidden conditions—only the genuine, unblemished grace of God.