Monday, February 23, 2009

Specific providence

Calvin's Institutes
Book 1 - Knowledge of God the Creator
Chapter 16 - God by His power nourishes and maintains the world created by Him, and rules its several parts by His providence
Sections 5-7 - Doctrine of special providence supported by the evidence of Scripture
Section 5 - God's providence also directs the individual
If He if only a "First mover," there wouldn't be room for His "fatherly favor."
He shows favor or rebuke in prosperity or famine.
Lev 26:3-4, 19; Deut 11:13-14; 28:12, 22; Ps 147:9; 113:5-6.

Section 6 - God's providence especially relates to men
It's absurd to think we can act without God. He directs our steps and choices.
Jer 10:23; Prov 20:24; 16:1, 9.
Even accidental deaths are from God's hand - Ex 21:13.
So are dice, or lots, cast - Prov 16:33.
He lifts up and humbles - Prov 29:13; Ps 75:6-7.

Section 7 - God's providence also regulates "natural" occurrences
Like the wind that brought Israel birds in the desert (Ex 16:13; Num 11:31), puts Jonah in a storm (Jon 1:4). Ps 104:3-4; 107:25, 29; Amos 4:9.
Like giving life in the womb: Ps 127:3; Gen 30:2.
Like giving daily bread: Deut 8:3; Matt 4:4; Isa 3:1; Matt 6:11; Ps 136.25.
Ps 34:15-16.

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