The deepest and most glorious concept - a union determined from eternity, secured at Calvary, implemented at conversion, deepened through life and perfected in death. Here is how it is felt; with a pastoral survey of the departments and circumstances in which union is unmistakably experienced.

Two distinct peoples were born to Rebekah. Isaac though godly never accepted that Jacob should have the entire heritage. He wanted Esau to head the family, while Jacob bore the seed royal. But God once again separated church and world. Here are the lessons.

To be named in this most magnificent register of grace cannot be bought, earned or inherited. How could Paul be so certain that his co-labourers were named there? 'Eternal security' as widely preached is dangerously wrong, but the security of 'perseverers' is assured by the Book.

Unknown to Abraham God prepares for him a believing royal neighbour, but the patriarch repeats an old failing. Then Ishmael at 17 persecutes infant Isaac and Sarah realises the seed of the serpent aims to seize the inheritance. God restores separateness to the church. The lessons.

What the Bible says about God's infinite knowledge is both surprising and humbling. His knowledge of us is particularly moving, for it is a longsuffering and concerned knowledge that has provided a way of forgiveness and life to countless people who see their need of it.