# God predestined us for adoption "God planned long ago to adopt us". The word "us" refers to Paul, the Ephesian church, and all believers in Christ. # God predestined us "God chose us ahead of time" or "God chose us long ago" # for adoption as sons Here "adoption" refers to becoming part of God's family. Here the word "sons" refers to males and females. Alternate translation: "to be adopted as his children" # through Jesus Christ God brought believers into his family by the work of Jesus Christ. # his will "God's will"