@tim (and @John_Harshman ):
Favorable prevailing conditions IS, by definition, “providential”.
When Pilgrims, or Church Fathers, or the Bible talk about God’s command or instructions since before the beginning of the Universe, the meaning is clear - - tantamount to Behe’s pool shot.
Or just like the front loading of the Dino-killing asteroid, targeting Earth since the big bang! The alternative for God is to “poof” the asteroid into existence, traveling at speed, just inside the asteroid belt (or just outside the solar system). The distinction matters only to one’s theology.
So … when an atheist says he doesnt see a difference, a Christian shrugs his shoulders in feigned shock.
And when John questions the definition of “providence” offered, there is plenty more feigned shock to go around.
By the way, @Tim , who says we have to cross the straight aĺl in one go?
