The Eternal Decrees: Understanding God's Sovereign Plan

 

Summary

In our exploration of the doctrine of God, we have reached a pivotal point where we delve into the works of God, specifically focusing on the doctrine of the Eternal Decrees. This doctrine is foundational, as it precedes the creation of the world and humanity. It is essential to understand that before God created anything, He had already determined, willed, and decreed certain things in His eternal counsel. This understanding is crucial because it shapes our perception of God's actions and His divine plan.

The doctrine of the Eternal Decrees of God is not merely an academic exercise but a profound truth revealed in the Bible. It is a challenging subject, much like the doctrine of the Trinity, yet it is vital for a comprehensive understanding of God's nature and His works. The decrees of God are His eternal plans, unchangeable and sovereign, encompassing all events and actions, including the free actions of human beings. This doctrine assures us that nothing happens by chance; everything is part of God's divine plan.

As we approach this doctrine, we must do so with humility, reverence, and faith, acknowledging our limitations and the mystery of God's ways. We must resist the temptation to approach it philosophically or with preconceived notions. Instead, we should seek to understand what is revealed in Scripture, accepting that there are aspects beyond our comprehension.

The doctrine of the Eternal Decrees also provides immense comfort and assurance. Knowing that our lives are part of God's eternal plan gives us a sense of security and purpose. It reminds us that our salvation is not based on our actions but on God's sovereign will and grace. This understanding should lead us to worship God more deeply, recognizing His majesty and the grandeur of His divine plan.

Key Takeaways:

- The Eternal Decrees of God: Before creation, God had an unchangeable plan for all His creatures. This plan is not haphazard but is determined by God's eternal counsel. Understanding this helps us see that everything in life is part of God's divine plan, providing us with assurance and purpose. [06:00]

- God's Sovereignty and Human Free Will: The doctrine teaches that God's decrees encompass all events, including human actions. While humans have free will, their actions are ultimately part of God's sovereign plan. This mystery requires us to approach the doctrine with humility and faith, accepting that some aspects are beyond our understanding. [20:06]

- The Comfort of God's Decrees: The doctrine of the Eternal Decrees offers profound comfort, as it assures us that our lives are secure in God's plan. Our salvation is not based on our works but on God's sovereign will and grace, providing us with a sense of safety and certainty. [11:47]

- Approaching the Doctrine with Humility: As we explore this doctrine, we must rid ourselves of prejudices and approach it with an open mind, seeking to understand what is revealed in Scripture. We must accept the limits of our understanding and trust in God's wisdom and goodness. [13:56]

- The Glory of God's Plan: Studying the Eternal Decrees reveals new aspects of God's glory, leading us to worship Him more deeply. It reminds us of the grandeur of God's plan and His infinite wisdom, encouraging us to trust in His purposes and submit to His will. [10:29]

Youtube Chapters:

- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:11] - Introduction to the Doctrine of God
- [01:02] - The Works of God
- [02:08] - What Comes Next?
- [03:29] - The Doctrine of Creation
- [04:15] - The Character of God's Activities
- [06:00] - The Eternal Decrees of God
- [08:25] - Why Consider the Eternal Decrees?
- [10:46] - The Importance of Knowing God
- [12:20] - How to Approach the Doctrine
- [14:28] - Faith and Biblical Limits
- [16:15] - The Necessity of the Doctrine
- [17:36] - Propositions of the Doctrine
- [20:06] - God's Plan and Human Actions
- [27:36] - Sin and God's Decrees
- [38:50] - The Mystery of God's Will
- [45:23] - Assurance in God's Plan
- [46:44] - Closing Prayer

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide: The Doctrine of the Eternal Decrees

Bible Reading:
1. Ephesians 1:11 - "In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will."
2. Proverbs 16:33 - "The lot is cast into the lap, but the whole disposing thereof is of the Lord."
3. Acts 2:23 - "Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain."

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Observation Questions:

1. According to Ephesians 1:11, what does it mean that we are "predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will"? How does this relate to the concept of God's eternal decrees? [22:19]

2. In Proverbs 16:33, what is the significance of the statement that "the whole disposing thereof is of the Lord"? How does this illustrate God's sovereignty over seemingly random events? [23:10]

3. How does Acts 2:23 demonstrate the relationship between God's eternal decrees and human actions, particularly in the context of Jesus' crucifixion? [25:34]

4. What are some examples given in the sermon that illustrate the doctrine of the Eternal Decrees of God? [06:00]

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Interpretation Questions:

1. How does the doctrine of the Eternal Decrees challenge or affirm one's understanding of God's sovereignty and human free will? What are the implications of this doctrine for believers today? [20:06]

2. In what ways does the doctrine of the Eternal Decrees provide comfort and assurance to believers, especially regarding their salvation? How does this understanding affect one's daily life and faith? [11:47]

3. The sermon emphasizes approaching the doctrine with humility and faith. Why is it important to acknowledge our limitations when studying complex theological concepts like the Eternal Decrees? [13:56]

4. How does the understanding of God's eternal plan lead to a deeper worship and recognition of His majesty and wisdom? What aspects of God's character are highlighted through this doctrine? [10:29]

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Application Questions:

1. Reflect on a time when you felt uncertain about the future. How does the assurance that your life is part of God's eternal plan provide comfort in such situations? [11:47]

2. The sermon encourages approaching the doctrine with humility. How can you cultivate a humble attitude when studying difficult theological topics or when faced with life's mysteries? [13:56]

3. Consider the balance between God's sovereignty and human free will. How does this understanding influence your decision-making and responsibility in daily life? [20:06]

4. In what ways can the knowledge of God's eternal decrees inspire you to trust in His purposes, even when circumstances seem challenging or confusing? [10:29]

5. How can you incorporate the understanding of God's eternal plan into your worship practices, both personally and within your church community? [10:29]

6. Reflect on the idea that nothing happens by chance and everything is part of God's divine plan. How does this perspective change the way you view unexpected events or challenges in your life? [23:10]

7. Identify one area of your life where you struggle to trust in God's plan. What steps can you take this week to surrender that area to His sovereign will? [11:47]

Devotional

Day 1: God's Eternal Plan and Purpose
Before the foundation of the world, God established an eternal plan for all creation. This plan, known as the Eternal Decrees, is not random or arbitrary but is rooted in God's infinite wisdom and sovereign will. Understanding this doctrine helps us recognize that every event in life, including our own existence, is part of a divine purpose. This realization provides us with assurance and a sense of purpose, knowing that our lives are intricately woven into God's grand design. As we reflect on this truth, we are reminded that nothing happens by chance, and everything is under God's control. [06:00]

Ephesians 1:11-12 (ESV): "In him we have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to the purpose of him who works all things according to the counsel of his will, so that we who were the first to hope in Christ might be to the praise of his glory."

Reflection: Consider a recent event in your life that seemed random or unexpected. How does understanding God's eternal plan change your perspective on that event?


Day 2: The Mystery of Sovereignty and Free Will
The doctrine of the Eternal Decrees encompasses all events, including human actions, within God's sovereign plan. While humans possess free will, their choices are ultimately part of God's divine purpose. This mystery challenges us to approach the doctrine with humility and faith, accepting that some aspects of God's ways are beyond our understanding. It invites us to trust in God's wisdom and to acknowledge our limitations in comprehending His infinite nature. [20:06]

Proverbs 16:9 (ESV): "The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps."

Reflection: Think about a decision you are currently facing. How can you seek God's guidance while acknowledging both your free will and His sovereignty?


Day 3: Comfort in God's Sovereign Decrees
The doctrine of the Eternal Decrees offers profound comfort, assuring us that our lives are secure within God's plan. Our salvation is not dependent on our actions but on God's sovereign will and grace. This understanding provides us with a sense of safety and certainty, knowing that our future is held in God's hands. It encourages us to rest in His promises and to find peace in the knowledge that He is in control. [11:47]

Isaiah 46:9-10 (ESV): "Remember the former things of old; for I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me, declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done, saying, 'My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose.'"

Reflection: Reflect on a time when you felt uncertain about the future. How can the assurance of God's sovereign plan bring you peace in similar situations today?


Day 4: Approaching God's Decrees with Humility
As we explore the doctrine of the Eternal Decrees, it is essential to approach it with humility, setting aside preconceived notions and seeking to understand what is revealed in Scripture. We must accept the limits of our understanding and trust in God's wisdom and goodness. This humble approach allows us to grow in faith and to deepen our relationship with God, acknowledging that His ways are higher than our ways. [13:56]

Job 42:2-3 (ESV): "I know that you can do all things, and that no purpose of yours can be thwarted. 'Who is this that hides counsel without knowledge?' Therefore I have uttered what I did not understand, things too wonderful for me, which I did not know."

Reflection: Identify an area of your life where you struggle to understand God's plan. How can you practice humility and trust in His wisdom in that area today?


Day 5: The Glory of God's Divine Plan
Studying the Eternal Decrees reveals new aspects of God's glory, leading us to worship Him more deeply. It reminds us of the grandeur of God's plan and His infinite wisdom, encouraging us to trust in His purposes and submit to His will. As we reflect on the majesty of God's divine plan, we are inspired to live lives that honor and glorify Him, recognizing that we are part of something far greater than ourselves. [10:29]

Romans 11:33-36 (ESV): "Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways! 'For who has known the mind of the Lord, or who has been his counselor?' 'Or who has given a gift to him that he might be repaid?' For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen."

Reflection: How can you intentionally incorporate worship and gratitude into your daily routine as a response to the glory of God's plan?

Quotes



The doctrine of the Eternal decrees of God and that's what I want to consider with you tonight. The doctrine of the Eternal decrees of God. These are the things which God determined and decided and ordained and decreed before he had done anything at all. [00:06:00]

I want to admit very frankly and very freely that I am again calling your attention to an extremely difficult subject. I don't apologize for that because as I'm going to tell you, this isn't a question of choice. The business of a man who's expounding the Bible is to expound the whole Bible. [00:06:31]

The doctrine of the Eternal decrees offers profound comfort, as it assures us that our lives are secure in God's plan. Our salvation is not based on our works but on God's sovereign will and grace, providing us with a sense of safety and certainty. [00:11:47]

The first thing you have to do always when you're considering the doctrine the decrees of God is to get rid of all your prejudices and to get rid of any kind of party Spirit. What I mean by party Spirit of course is that we all tend to take up certain positions. [00:12:20]

We must approach the subject with humility, we must approach it with reverence, we must approach it by faith, faith and with a ready admission of our own limits. We must approach it with an open mind seeking and searching for the teaching of the scripture. [00:13:56]

God has from eternity had an unchangeable plan with reference to his creatures. May I repeat that God has from eternity had an unchangeable plan with reference to all his creatures. The Bible is constantly using a phrase like this before the foundation of the world. [00:17:36]

The plan of God comprehends and determines all things and all events of every kind that come to pass. Let me explain a little what I mean by that. If you agree that God has determined certain ends, then I think you'll have to agree that he must determine everything that leads to those ends. [00:20:06]

The doctrine of the Eternal decree of God says that all events are ultimately determined and decreed by God. Now this of necessity must include the free actions of free agents. If everything is determined by God, it must include I say the free actions, the voluntary actions of free and voluntary agents. [00:21:12]

The decrees of God are in all things perfectly consistent with his own most wise benevolent and holy nature. I think I needn't argue that I simply repeat it. The decrees of God are in all things perfectly consistent with his own most wise benevolent and holy nature. [00:38:50]

The salvation of men and of certain men in particular was determined by God before the foundation of the world. He does this entirely of his own good will and his grace. I would again refer you to Matthew 11:25 and 26 in John 6:37. [00:45:23]

To realize that if you are a child of God it is because God has determined it, and what he has determined about you is certain and safe and sure that nothing and no one can ever take you out of his hands or make him his purpose forgo with respect to the doctrine of the Eternal decrees of God. [00:46:44]

Before the foundation of the world he knew me, he knew you and your name and mine was written in the Lamb's Book of Life before the world was ever made before you and I or anybody else ever came into it. Let us bow before his majesty. [00:47:23]

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Transcript
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