In the context of biblical theology, the concept of "The Decree" refers to the sovereign will and eternal plan of God, as it unfolds throughout Scripture. This decree encompasses all that God has ordained to occur, from creation to redemption and beyond. It is a central theme in understanding God's sovereignty, providence, and the unfolding of His divine purposes in history.

Biblical Foundation

The Bible presents God's decree as eternal, wise, and unchangeable. In Isaiah 46:9-10 , God declares, "Remember the former things of old, for I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like Me, declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times things not yet done, saying, ‘My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all My purpose.’" This passage highlights the comprehensive nature of God's decree, affirming that His purposes will be fulfilled.

Creation and Providence

The decree of God is evident from the very act of creation. Genesis 1:1 states, "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth." This act of creation was not random but was part of God's eternal plan. Colossians 1:16 further elaborates, "For in Him all things were created, things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities. All things were created through Him and for Him."

God's decree also encompasses His providential care over creation. In Matthew 10:29-31 , Jesus teaches, "Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from the will of your Father. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So do not be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows." This illustrates God's intimate involvement and sovereign control over all aspects of life.

Redemption and Salvation

Central to God's decree is the plan of redemption through Jesus Christ. Ephesians 1:4-5 reveals, "For He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless in His presence. In love He predestined us for adoption as His sons through Jesus Christ, according to the good pleasure of His will." This passage underscores the pre-temporal nature of God's redemptive plan, highlighting His purpose to bring salvation to humanity through Christ.

The decree of God also includes the means by which salvation is accomplished. Acts 2:23 speaks of Jesus' crucifixion as being "delivered up by God’s set plan and foreknowledge," indicating that even the events of the cross were part of God's sovereign decree.

Judgment and Eschatology

God's decree extends to the final judgment and the consummation of all things. Revelation 20:12 describes the scene of the final judgment: "And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Another book was opened, which is the book of life. The dead were judged according to their deeds, as recorded in the books." This event is part of God's ultimate purpose to bring justice and establish His eternal kingdom.

The eschatological fulfillment of God's decree is further seen in Revelation 21:1-3 , where John writes, "Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, 'Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man, and He will dwell with them. They will be His people, and God Himself will be with them as their God.'"

Human Responsibility and Divine Sovereignty

While God's decree is sovereign and unchangeable, Scripture also affirms human responsibility. Philippians 2:12-13 exhorts believers, "Therefore, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence but now even more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God who works in you to will and to act on behalf of His good purpose." This passage illustrates the mysterious interplay between divine sovereignty and human action, where God's purposes are accomplished through human obedience and effort.

Conclusion

The purpose of the decree is ultimately to glorify God and to manifest His attributes of wisdom, power, justice, and love. Through His decree, God orchestrates all events in history to fulfill His divine purposes, culminating in the redemption of His people and the establishment of His eternal kingdom.