Bible Dictionary
PURPOSE, OF GOD
The purpose of God is His intelligent and gracious design concerning His works and His dealings with humanity. It refers to God’s settled aim, including His plan of salvation and the destiny of those called according to His will.
Definition
The purpose of God is His intelligent design concerning His works and His dealings with humanity. It may be described as God’s purpose or decree, but the term emphasizes the intelligent cause behind the decree and an aim consistent with God’s character.
Biblical Usage
The term is used in connection with God’s purpose in relation to human beings and eternity. It points to God’s settled design and aim in His dealings with people.
Historical Bible Dictionaries
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>pur'-pus (prothesis (Ro 9:11; Eph 1:11)): The word "purpose" seems to be an equivalent of the word "decree" as used in regard to man's relation to eternity. More correctly stated, it softens the word "decree" and refers back to the cause of the decree as lodged in an intelligent design and forward to an aim consistent with the character of God.</p><p>See FOREORDAIN; PREDESTINATION.</p>