WCF 03 The Decree of God Flashcards
What is the third thing Scripture makes known about God?
That God decrees whatsoever comes to pass (plans and decrees of God)
What are some other terms for decree?
God’s eternal purpose. The Counsel of his will, foreordination, predestination
What are the attributes of God’s decree?
eternal, unchangeable, wise, holy
If decree is unchangeable, how explain Gen. 6:6; I Sam 15:11
God accommodates Himself to us. He “lisps” with us, speaking in terms we can understand.
What is the relation between God’s decree and man’s will? What is the pastoral application?
God’s decree includes the actions freely chosen by man’s will. We can rest assured that he will complete His will. We are responsible beings.
Define election.
God’s appointing some to everlasting life.
What are some of the attributes of election?
It is eternal, before the foundation of the world.
It is immutable.
Manifests His glory in His mercy and His justice.
Grounded in His love and according to His pleasure only.
Uses means.
Unsearchable
Does election rule out means? Why not?
No– God has not only foreordained the elect to be saved, but also ordained all the means by which they will be saved.
2 Thess. 14, 15 called them “through our gospel”
Rom. 10:14 “how can they hear without a preacher”
Can someone desire to be saved but cannot because he is not elect?
No because it is God who works in us both to will and to do his good pleasure. (Phil. 2:13) (requires grace and God has provided that grace for the elect only)
John 6:37 “all who come to Me” All are welcome who come on His terms.
Why should you pray for lost people?
That is part of the means by which God determines to save
God says to pray
2 Tim. 2:24-26 The Lord’s bond-servant must not be quarrelsome, but be kind to all, able to teach, patient when wronged, with gentleness correcting those who are in opposition, if perhaps God may grant them repentance leading to the knowledge of the truth, and they may come to their senses and escape from the snare of the devil, having been held captive by him to do his will.
What is reprobation? What are the two parts?
They are ordained for dishonor.
God passes over them and leaves them to their natural inclination; He hardens them.
