Deep Dive into Christian Theology by Millard J. Erickson - God's Originating Work: God's Plan

Christian theology posits that God has an eternal and all-encompassing plan that renders certain everything that will come to pass. This plan is not arbitrary but reflects God's wisdom, unity of intention, and ultimate purpose, which is His own glory. Key characteristics of this plan include its eternality, freedom (based on God's good pleasure), efficacy (certainty of fulfillment), and inclusiveness of all events, including human actions, though primarily concerning God's own activity.The relationship between God's plan and human action is a point of theological discussion, particularly between Calvinism and Arminianism. Calvinism emphasizes God's plan as logically prior to human decisions, while Arminianism prioritizes human free will, suggesting God's plan is based on foreknowledge of human choices. A moderately Calvinistic view presented in the sources argues for God's unconditional plan, where God renders human actions certain without negating genuine freedom (compatibilistic freedom). This model distinguishes between God making an outcome certain and making it necessary, suggesting humans still choose according to their desires, which God ultimately influences.To understand why God might permit things He doesn't desire, like sin, a distinction is made between God's "wish" (His general will and values) and His "will" (His specific intention in a situation). God may will to permit what He does not wish for a greater purpose.This belief in God's plan provides a specific perspective on the direction of history. Unlike cyclical views that see history as repeating patterns, the Christian view sees history as linear and purposeful, guided by God towards a definite goal (telos). This contrasts with pessimistic, optimistic secular, and materialistic views, offering believers assurance that history is not driven by chance but by a loving God with a planned and certain future. This certainty, however, does not negate the importance of human actions like evangelism, as these actions can be the means by which God's plan unfolds.Reformed Theologian GPT: https://chat.openai.com/g/g-XXwzX1gnv-reformed-theologianPatreon: patreon.com/edi_reformed