richmahn_en_tn/2ti/01/09.md

with a holy calling

"with a calling that set us apart as his people" or "to be his holy people"

He did this

"He saved and called us"

not according to our works

"not because we did anything to deserve it"

but according to his own plan and grace

"but because he planned to show us kindness"

in Christ Jesus

"through our relationship to Christ Jesus"

before times ever began

"before the world began" or "before time began"