Deep Dive into Institutes of the Christian Religion by John Calvin - God by His Power Nourishes and Maintains the World Created by Him, And Rules Its Several Parts by His Providence

Scripture vividly illustrates God's special providence as a direct and detailed governance over all creation, far beyond a general sustaining force. This active involvement is evident in God's care for the smallest creatures, exemplified by Christ's assertion that not even a sparrow falls without the Father's will, and David's observation of God feeding young ravens. Furthermore, Scripture highlights God's special providence in the provision of food and nourishment. Psalms describe all creatures looking to God for sustenance, and the provision of daily bread is seen as a direct gift from His fatherly hand, not merely a natural occurrence. God's command over natural phenomena is another key illustration. The creation of light and vegetation before the sun demonstrates the sun's instrumental role, while miracles like the sun standing still and the backward movement of its shadow showcase God's active control over what might seem like natural courses. Similarly, the stirring and calming of winds and the sending of rain or drought are depicted as direct actions signifying His favor or judgment. Scripture also emphasizes God's special providence in the direction of human affairs. Prophets like Jeremiah and Solomon declare that humans cannot direct their own steps, indicating God's active guidance. Even seemingly chance events, such as accidents or the outcome of casting lots, are presented as being within God's determined plan. Underlying all these illustrations is the portrayal of God's active omnipotence, not as a passive attribute but as a ceaseless and deliberate involvement in individual and particular motions. This understanding contrasts sharply with the idea of fortune or chance, which Scripture opposes by presenting God's deliberate will as the ultimate cause of all occurrences. In essence, Scripture reveals an intimate involvement of God in every facet of creation, underscoring His special providence over all. Reformed Theologian GPT: https://chat.openai.com/g/g-XXwzX1gnv-reformed-theologian Patreon: patreon.com/edi_reformed