Divine Decree and Human Responsibility in Theology
The concept of divine decree is central to understanding the relationship between God's sovereignty and human responsibility in theology. The decrees of God are described as "his eternal, unchangeable, holy, wise, and sovereign purpose, comprehending at once all things that ever were or will be in their causes, conditions, successions, and relations, and determining their certain futurition" [1]. This definition underscores the comprehensive nature of God's decrees, encompassing all events and circumstances.
In biblical narratives, divine decrees are often associated with God's governance and providence. For instance, in the book of Daniel, King Darius issues a decree that reflects his recognition of God's sovereignty, commanding all people to "tremble and fear before the God of Daniel" [2]. Similarly, Nebuchadnezzar's experience with God's judgment and restoration leads to a declaration of God's kingdom and its eternal nature [3].
The interplay between divine decree and human responsibility is complex. On one hand, God's decrees are seen as determining the course of events, yet humans are still held accountable for their actions. In Hebrews 11:6, faith is described as being convinced that God "rewards them that diligently seek him," implying human agency in seeking God [4]. This tension is not explicitly resolved in the sources but is a recurring theme in theological discussions.
The biblical account of Abraham's servant in Genesis 24 illustrates a nuanced understanding of divine providence and human action. The servant prays for a sign, demonstrating his trust in God's superintendence while also exercising rational judgment in seeking a natural sign [5]. This narrative suggests that divine decree and human responsibility are not mutually exclusive but are intertwined aspects of God's governance.
Theological traditions have grappled with the implications of divine decree for human responsibility. While the sources do not provide a uniform interpretation, they collectively highlight the intricate relationship between God's sovereignty and human agency. The decree of God is not merely a distant, deterministic force but is dynamically related to human actions and decisions.
The historical development of this doctrine is evident in the various biblical contexts where divine decrees are discussed. From the creation narratives in Genesis to the prophetic declarations in Daniel, the theme of God's sovereignty and human responsibility is woven throughout the biblical text. Understanding this doctrine requires a nuanced consideration of both the biblical anchor and the theological articulations that have evolved over time.
Sources
- Easton's Bible Dictionary “Easton's Bible Dictionary: Decrees of God — "The decrees of God are his eternal, unchangeable, holy, wise, and sovereign purpose, comprehending at once all things that ever were or will be in their causes, conditions, successions, and relations, and determining their certain futurition. The several contents of this one eternal purpose are, because of the limitation of our faculties, necessarily conceived of by us in partial aspects, and in logical relations, and are therefore styled Decrees." The decree being the act of an infinite, absolute, eternal, unchangeable, and sovereign Person, compre”
- Daniel (Methodist/Wesleyan) “Adam Clarke on Daniel 6:26: I make a decree that - men tremble and fear before the God of Daniel - As in the case of the three Hebrews, Dan 3:29. The true God was known by his servants, and by the deliverances he wrought for them. See his characters in this decree. 1. He is the living God, the Author and Giver of life; all others are dead gods. 2. He is steadfast for ever. All things change; but he is unchangeable. 3. He has a kingdom; for as he made all things, so he governs all things. 4. His kingdom shall not be destroyed. No human power can prevail against it, because it is upheld by his o”
- Daniel (Nonconformist/Puritan) “Matthew Henry on Daniel 6:25: Darius here studies to make some amends for the dishonour he had done both to God and Daniel, in casting Daniel into the lions' den, by doing honour to both. I. He gives honour to God by a decree published to all nations, by which they are required to fear before him. And this is a decree which is indeed fit to be made unalterable, according to the laws of the Medes and Persians, for it is the everlasting gospel, preached to those that dwell on the earth, Rev 14:7. Fear God, and give glory to him. Observe, 1. To whom he sends this decree - to all people, nations a”
- Hebrews (Methodist/Wesleyan) “Adam Clarke on Hebrews 11:6: He that cometh to God - The man who professes that it is his duty to worship God, must, if he act rationally, do it on the conviction that there is such a Being infinite, eternal, unoriginated, and self-existent; the cause of all other being; on whom all being depends; and by whose energy, bounty, and providence, all other beings exist, live, and are supplied with the means of continued existence and life. He must believe, also, that he rewards them that diligently seek him; that he is not indifferent about his own worship; that he requires adoration and religious ”
- Genesis (Methodist/Wesleyan) “Adam Clarke on Genesis 24:12: And he said, O Lord God, etc. - "The conduct of this servant," says Dr. Dodd, "appears no less pious than rational. By supplicating for a sign, he acknowledges God to be the great superintendent and director of the universe, and of that event in particular; and at the same time, by asking a natural sign, such as betokened humanity, condescension, and other qualities which promised a discreet and virtuous wife, he puts his prayer upon such a discreet, rational footing, as to be a proper example for all to imitate who would not tempt the providence of God, by expect”