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 theological discourse, it is often discussed in relation to God's sovereignty, human responsibility, and the nature of sin and salvation. Biblical Basis The concept of free-will is implicitly supported by various passages in the Bible, where human beings are presented with choices and are held accountable for their actions. The Berean Standard Bible provides several instances where the exercise of free-will is evident. Old Testament In the Old Testament, the notion of free-will is seen in the choices presented to humanity. 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 implies a choice and the responsibility that comes with it. Deuteronomy 30:19 further emphasizes the concept of 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." Here, the Israelites are urged to make a conscious decision to follow God's commandments. New Testament In the New Testament, free-will is often discussed in the context of salvation and moral responsibility. Jesus' invitation in Matthew 11:28 , "Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest," suggests a voluntary response to His call. The Apostle Paul also addresses the concept of free-will in Romans 6:16 : "Do you not know that when you offer yourselves as obedient slaves, you are slaves to the one you obey, whether you are slaves to sin leading to death, or to obedience leading to righteousness?" This passage highlights the choice between sin and righteousness, underscoring human responsibility. Theological Implications The doctrine of free-will is central to understanding the relationship between divine sovereignty and human responsibility. While God is sovereign and His will is ultimately accomplished, humans are granted the capacity to make choices. This is evident in the call to repentance and faith, where individuals are invited to respond to God's grace. Free-Will and Salvation The interplay between free-will and salvation is a significant theological discussion. Ephesians 2:8-9 states, "For it is by grace you have been saved through faith, and this not from yourselves; it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast." While salvation is a gift from God, the acceptance of this gift involves a personal decision, reflecting the exercise of free-will. Moral Responsibility The Bible consistently holds individuals accountable for their actions, reinforcing the concept of free-will. In Galatians 6:7 , Paul writes, "Do not be deceived: God is not to be mocked. Whatever a man sows, he will reap in return." This principle of sowing and reaping underscores the moral responsibility that accompanies human choices. Conclusion The concept of free-will is intricately woven into the biblical narrative, presenting humans as moral agents capable of making choices. While God's sovereignty is paramount, the exercise of free-will is a critical aspect of human existence, impacting one's relationship with God and others. Easton's Bible Dictionary Free-will offeringA spontaneous gift (Exodus 35:29), a voluntary sacrifice (Leviticus 22:23; Ezra 3:5), as opposed to one in consequence of a vow, or in expiation of some offence. 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 Strong's Hebrew 5071. nedabah -- voluntariness, freewill offering... freewill offering, freely, plentiful, voluntary, offering, willingly, offering. ... or (by inference, in plural) abundant gift -- free(-will) offering, freely ... /hebrew/5071.htm - 6k 5068. nadab -- to incite, impel 5069. nedab -- to volunteer, offer freely Library Whether Free-Will is a Power Distinct from the Will? Grace and Free Will Free Will --A Slave Free-Will Baptists. Free-Will Baptists. Free-Will Baptists. Of Free Will. Aminian or Free-Will Baptists. The Free-Will of Man Eighth Tractate. On Free-Will and the Will of the One. Thesaurus Free-will (9 Occurrences)Free-will. Freewill, Free-will. Freewill-offering . Easton's Bible Dictionary ... (YLT). Freewill, Free-will. Freewill-offering . Reference Bible. /f/free-will.htm - 10k Freewill (27 Occurrences) Freewill-offering (14 Occurrences) Free-will-offering (9 Occurrences) Freewill-offerings (8 Occurrences) Free-will-offerings (6 Occurrences) Votive (13 Occurrences) Vows (38 Occurrences) Willingly (27 Occurrences) Vowed (34 Occurrences) 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 Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Free-will (9 Occurrences)Leviticus 7:16 Numbers 29:39 Deuteronomy 12:17 Deuteronomy 16:10 Ezra 1:4 Ezra 7:16 Psalms 68:9 Psalms 110:3 Ezekiel 46:12 Subtopics Free-Will offerings: General Scriptures Concerning Related Terms Freewill-offering (14 Occurrences) Free-will-offering (9 Occurrences) Freewill-offerings (8 Occurrences) Free-will-offerings (6 Occurrences) Peace-offering (46 Occurrences) |
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