God’s Eternal Decree 

1. God’s Plan Is Eternal
Before the world was created, God made a perfect plan for everything that would happen. Nothing surprises Him. Nothing changes His mind. His plan is wise, loving, and never fails (Ephesians 1:11).

2. God’s Decree Covers All Things
Everything that takes place—big or small, good or evil—is included in God’s decree.

• This does not mean God causes sin.

• It means God allows or permits things for His own wise purposes.

3. God’s Will Is Always Consistent
God does not make decisions suddenly or react to events. His plan is one, unified, and unchanging (Isaiah 46:9–10).

4. God Uses Means to Accomplish His Plan
God not only decides the final result, but also the steps that lead to it.

• If He decrees salvation, He also decrees the means—hearing the gospel, faith, repentance, and perseverance (Romans 10:14–17).

• If He decrees rain, He also decrees clouds and evaporation.

5. God’s Decree and Human Freedom Work Together
Human decisions are real. We are responsible for our actions. God’s control does not destroy our freedom; instead, He works through it in a way we cannot fully understand (Proverbs 16:9).

6. The High Purpose of God’s Decree
Everything God decrees has two great goals:

1. His glory (Romans 11:36)

2. The good of His people (Romans 8:28)

7. Election and Reprobation
God, in His grace, chooses a people to save—not because of their works, but because of His mercy (Ephesians 1:4–5).
Others are left in their sin, receiving justice rather than mercy. God never wrongs anyone.