How doth God execute his decrees?

1. What is it for God to execute his decrees?

It is to bring them to pass; or, give an actual being in time, to what he purposed from eternity.

2. Doth not God leave the execution of his decrees to second causes?

Whatever use God may make of second causes, in the execution of his decrees, yet they are all but tools in his over-ruling hand, to bring about his glorious designs; they are his servants, and must do all his pleasure.

3. What difference is there between the decree, and the execution thereof?

The decree is an immanent or inherent act in God, and is nothing else but God decreeing; but the execution is a transient or passing act of his infinite power, bringing the thing decreed into an actual existence.

4. Is there an exact harmony, or correspondence, between God’s decree, and the execution thereof?

When the thing decreed is brought actually into being, it exactly corresponds unto the idea or platform of it in the infinite mind of God; Psalm 139:16 as the tabernacle of Moses answered the pattern given of it in the mount. Exodus 25:40

5. Can none of the decrees of God be defeated, or fail of execution?

By no means; the counsel of the Lord shall stand, and he will do all his pleasure: Isaiah 46:10 “Who hath resisted his will?” Romans 9:19 “None can stay his hand, or say unto him, What dost thou?” Daniel 4:35

6. What are the works of God, wherein his decrees are executed?

They are [the works of creation and providence.]

7. To which of these works of God doth redemption belong?

To the providence of God, as the most glorious part thereof towards men.

8. What then is the first external work of God?

It is creation: which is therefore called, The beginning of his ways.

9. What is the difference betwixt God’s executing the work of creation and that of providence?

He executed the work of creation entirely without means, by the word of his power; but he executes the work of providence, for ordinary, in the use of them.

10. What may we learn from God’s executing his decrees?

That all his promises shall be punctually accomplished, and not one of them fall to the ground.