Predestination Illustration

> So we could say that insofar as anything and everything that comes to pass, we could say that the decrees are the blueprint of all Providence exhaustively. And also we can say that insofar as salvation is concerned. Predestination is the blueprint of Providence.

GEM: 

Yes, that's a very accurate way to understand the relationship between these concepts in Calvinist theology. Here's a breakdown of why it works:

• Decrees as Blueprint for All Providence: You're right. Calvinists believe God has an eternal plan (decrees) that encompasses everything that will ever happen. This plan serves as the ultimate blueprint for God's ongoing work in the universe (providence). Just like a blueprint outlines the entire structure of a building, the decrees encompass all aspects of providence, from the smallest details to the grand sweep of history.

• Predestination Within the Blueprint: Within this larger blueprint, predestination acts as a specific blueprint focused on salvation. It details God's preordained plan for who will be saved (elect) and who will not (reprobate). So, predestination is a more specific section within the overall blueprint of the decrees, but it's still crucial for understanding God's providential work in regards to salvation.

Here's an analogy:

• Imagine a massive architectural blueprint for a city. This blueprint (decrees) details everything - houses, roads, parks, etc. Within this grand plan, there might be a specific blueprint for a designated historical district (predestination). The historical district blueprint details the specific buildings and their preservation, but it's still part of the larger city plan.

Key takeaway:

The decrees are the overarching blueprint for everything that happens according to God's will. Predestination is a specific section within that blueprint that focuses on the area of salvation.