COROLLARY XLVI.
It is readily apparent from this that, even if we cannot produce a definition of each will exact to the fine points of the dialecticians, we can certainly exhibit that description which clearly lays bare the character and nature of the thing. And indeed I see nothing that could be greatly desired if, I. the antecedent will is so described that it is: a sincere and active purpose flowing from love and mercy, by which God in Christ wills the restoration and salvation of the whole of humanity, although—
—fallen and lost, and therefore directs it and the individual men contained within its compass toward beatitude, frees them from the necessity of perishing, and furnishes them with heavenly powers by which, unless they fail themselves, they may obtain the appointed end of salvation. And then, II. the consequent will may be called: an eternal and active purpose to be derived from justice, by which God destines to good works, final perseverance, and the immortal crown those whom he foreknows will consent to the benefits of mercy; or permits guilt and a will hardened in sin even unto the end, and consigns men guilty of so great a crime to punishments which will never cease. For these descriptions contain everything by which the distinction of the first and second will, and the origin, nature, endowments, and effects of each considered separately, are properly and clearly explained.