Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Concept Free will refers to the ability of individuals to make choices that are not predetermined by prior causes or divine intervention. In the context of Christian theology, it is the capacity given by God to humans to make moral and spiritual decisions. This concept is foundational in understanding human responsibility, sin, and salvation. Biblical Basis The Bible presents numerous instances that imply the existence of free will. In Genesis 2:16-17 , God commands Adam, "You may eat freely from every tree of the garden, but you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for in the day that you eat of it, you will surely die." This command presupposes Adam's ability to choose obedience or disobedience. In Deuteronomy 30:19 , Moses presents the Israelites with a choice: "I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you today that I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse. Therefore choose life, so that you and your descendants may live." This passage underscores the human capacity to choose between different paths. Joshua 24:15 further emphasizes this concept: "But if it is unpleasing in your sight to serve the LORD, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your fathers served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you are living. As for me and my house, we will serve the LORD." Here, Joshua acknowledges the people's ability to decide whom they will serve. Theological Implications Free will is integral to the understanding of sin and moral responsibility. Romans 3:23 states, "for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." This implies that sin is a result of human choice, not divine coercion. The presence of free will means that individuals are accountable for their actions and decisions. The doctrine of free will also plays a crucial role in the concept of salvation. In John 3:16 , it is written, "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that everyone who believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life." The invitation to believe is extended to all, suggesting that individuals have the freedom to accept or reject this offer of salvation. Free Will and Divine Sovereignty The relationship between free will and divine sovereignty is a complex theological issue. While God is sovereign and His purposes will ultimately prevail, He allows human beings to exercise free will within the framework of His divine plan. Proverbs 16:9 states, "A man’s heart plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps." This suggests that while humans can make plans and decisions, God’s sovereign will is ultimately accomplished. Free Will in the New Testament The New Testament continues to affirm the concept of free will. In Revelation 3:20 , Jesus says, "Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in and dine with him, and he with Me." This imagery of knocking and opening the door implies a voluntary response to Christ’s invitation. Paul’s writings also reflect the importance of free will in the Christian life. In Galatians 5:13 , he writes, "For you, brothers, were called to freedom; but do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh. Rather, serve one another in love." Here, Paul acknowledges the freedom believers have and encourages them to use it responsibly. Conclusion The concept of free will is deeply embedded in the biblical narrative and is essential for understanding human nature, moral responsibility, and the dynamics of salvation. While it coexists with divine sovereignty, free will underscores the dignity and responsibility of human choice in the biblical worldview. Topical Bible Verses John 8:24I said therefore to you, that you shall die in your sins: for if you believe not that I am he, you shall die in your sins. Topicalbible.org Acts 2:38 Romans 13:1 Luke 13:3 Hebrews 11:7 Greek 1595. hekousios -- of free will, voluntary ... of free will, voluntary. Part of Speech: Adjective Transliteration: hekousios Phonetic Spelling: (hek-oo'-see-on) Short Definition: willing, voluntary ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1595.htm - 6k 1635. hekon -- of one's own free will, voluntary 1659. eleutheroo -- to make free, fig. to exempt (from liability) Strong's Hebrew 5071. nedabah -- voluntariness, freewill offering... spontaneity, or (adjectively) spontaneous; also (concretely) a spontaneous or (by inference, in plural) abundant gift -- free(-will) offering, freely, plentiful ... /hebrew/5071.htm - 6k 7971. shalach -- to send 3467. yasha -- to deliver Library Whether Free-Will is a Power Distinct from the Will? Grace and Free Will Free-Will Baptists. Free-Will Baptists. Free Will --A Slave Free-Will Baptists. Whether Free-Will is an Appetitive Power? Of Free Will. Aminian or Free-Will Baptists. Whether There is Free-Will in the Angels? Resources What is libertarian free will? | GotQuestions.orgWill we have free will in heaven? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about predestination vs. free will? | GotQuestions.org Free: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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