God's Eternal Purpose

In his classic work, The Economy of the Covenants between God and Man, Herman Witsius (1636-1708) made the following statement: “The covenant between the Father and the Son is the foundation of the whole of our salvation.” ...Do we realize that everything Christ did in history was planned in eternity?

So, what do we call this “eternal purpose”? ...The Word of God says that the unsearchable riches of God’s grace and His manifold wisdom are displayed, “according to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Eph 3:11). This and many other passages are why Witsius and others believed then and still believe today that an eternal agreement between the Father and Son is plainly set forth in the infallible Word of God. For instance: “This is the Father’s will which hath sent me, that of all which he hath given me I should lose nothing” (Joh 6:39).

To encourage God’s people to think deeply about these matters, we present this issue of the FGB, God’s Eternal Purpose...David Martyn Lloyd-Jones introduces this deeply profound subject. Charles Spurgeon then beautifully, movingly explains the parties, stipulations, and objects of God’s eternal counsels. What is the nature of this eternal agreement? Patrick Gillespie describes it, and Peter Bulkeley offers a brief list of the promises and agreements exchanged between the Father and the Son in eternity. The biblical reality of God’s plan is explored by R. B. C. Howell, and A. W. Pink shows the importance of Christ’s election as our Mediator. Now, is this all speculation, or is there any practical value to the contemplation of this subject? Thomas Brooks answers that question with a detailed exposition of the agreements between Father and Son, aimed at the edification and encouragement of believers. A. A. Hodge helps us to see that the only way to understand Christ’s atonement properly is through the lens of God’s eternal purpose. And then, Spurgeon, in a second article, gives us a breathtaking vision of the consummation of God’s plan—the marriage of the Lamb. Finally, Isaac Ambrose urges us to a deep love for Christ because He planned and agreed to be our Savior before the foundation of the world.