"In the exercise of God's efficiency, the decree of God comes first. This manner of working is the most perfect of all and notably agrees with the divine nature"

William Ames, a popular Puritan theologian, offers an extensive reflection on the nature of magnificent action and decree in this quote. The essence of his declaration harp on the relationship in between God's will and His actions, underscoring the primacy and perfection inherent in divine decrees.

The phrase "In the exercise of God's performance, the decree of God precedes" recommends a doctrinal framework in which God's choices or decrees are not reactionary or contingent however rather precede any divine action. "Efficiency" here communicates the idea of God's efficient power, His ability to produce what He wills. Ames indicates that God's decrees are preemptive, setting in motion the divine will without dependence on external elements. This aligns with classical theism, which affirms that God's will is the main cause of all that occurs, echoing the doctrine of divine sovereignty where God's decrees are the supreme source of whatever in deep space.

"This way of working is the most best of all" emphasizes the notion of divine perfection. Within the theological context, God's perfection appears in His omniscience, omnipotence, and omnibenevolence. To say that His manner of working is perfect suggests that there is a fundamental flawlessness and efficiency in how God governs and engages with creation. This speaks with the idea that God's actions are not approximate but are in ideal consistency with His nature, which is fundamentally great and simply.

Finally, Ames keeps in mind that this divine manner of working "especially concurs with the magnificent nature." Here, "divine nature" incorporates qualities such as immutability, eternity, and simpleness. The agreement in between God's manner of working and His nature signifies a consistency and loyalty innate to God's character. It underscores that in the outworking of His decrees, God's nature as ageless, unchangeable, and completely excellent is always kept.

In summary, this quote by William Ames underscores the primacy, perfection, and consistency of God's decrees, echoing classical Christian theism's beliefs about God's sovereign and benevolent governance over creation.