# 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"