Bible Question:
Just a bit of logical reasoning about the issue of "predestination" vs "free will." I've seen many who question as an either-or proposition a person's fate by God's "predestination" with a person's "free will" to determine his/her own fate. I don't think these things are contradictory and I can't help but consider how this may be applied to Jesus, himself. I mean the Bible points to the fact his fate on the cross was predetermined (See Isaiah 53:5)--God knew what would happen and gave that information to the prophets, such as Isaiah, centuries in advance--and yet, Jesus still had the free will to sacrifice himself on the cross. (See John 10:18) So, I think the same applies to us. God KNOWS who will and will not follow Him in advance--thus, in that sense our fates are predestined--but, the choice is still ours to freely make, just as it was with Jesus. Would anyone else like to comment on this? |
Bible Answer: I was confused about this topic for awhile. One day this just popped into my head and I havent been confused since. I dont know if it was from God or just my mind trying to make this concept more graspable (is this a word :)) and I dont know if there is any scripture to back it up. Well, I understand God knows all. I just thought (or was told as I said I dont know) that mabey God knows both paths we could take when we are given a choice to make, and knows what effect what ever choice we make would have on us. This might sound dumb, but I think God MIGHT (if this is incorrect please let me know) hide from himself what ever path we take, but is never surprised at the one we do choose. I think if He wants to, then sometimes He looks into the future and sees what one we choose, so He can intervene. Although more often than not, I think he does this. If Im wrong, please tell me, as I dont want to believe lies. Its just the whole "predestination vs. free will" is a confusing topic for me and I try no to think of it. The thoughts you guys, and most people I have ever heard from, sound confusing to me. It makes it sound like we are puppets and dont have ANY control over what we do. Basicly I dont think our lives are all planned like a script for a puppet show (although I do believe that some parts, if not most are) and I dont think some of us are ment to go to hell. I dont know if I accuratley discribed my thoughts, and if you have any questions about them please ask. Also, if these sound like the beliefs of any cult, just let me know as Im not a member of a cult and dont want to share any false beliefs. I'm only 13 and am open to other thoughts, as long as you can truely say Im wrong, I wont find it disrespectful and will gladly listen to what you say. Sorry I dont have any scripture, but God does give people insite, even if this isnt a case, right? (I know this breaks the first rule it states before posting, but I had to ask/share) Blessings, Ian |