Often it seems in Scripture that God, before time began, chose certain people for heaven and certain people for hell. In theological terms this is called “double predestination.” Find out what we think of this age-old debate.
As a note, I generally try to avoid this topic, as the issue has been a means for far too long to divide the church, to move our eyes away from the person of Jesus, and to bring in what James would call the wisdom from hell (James 3:13-18). If we are not capable as His people to discuss this subject in a manner that is peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, and full of mercy; or if this subject is our passion in life, then we would do well to avoid the topic. Rather, it is better to be silent and focus on the work of loving God and others, pursuing fully the fruit of the Spirit. I continue to observe that Jesus made the mark of His disciples to be love, not doctrine (John 13:35), and the greatest commandment to love, not to know. Knowledge puffs up but love builds up (1 Corinthians 8:1). While sound doctrine is important, I observe that the devils may have better doctrine than we (James 2:19). Life is to be lived, not in the doctrine, but in the faith in Christ and love for the brothers. Faith in Christ should lead to love and gentleness. The one who sows discord among the brothers is a person to be avoided (Proverbs 6:14-19; Romans 16:17-18; Titus 2:10-11).