What about Free Will?: Reconciling Our Choices with God's Sovereignty

by M. Scott Christensen

Christensen explains two views that acknowledge God's sovereignty and its relation to human compatibilism and libertarianism. Providing cogent, biblical answers, Christensen argues for compatibilism and shows how it makes sense of evil, suffering, prayer, evangelism, and sanctification. You will gain a deeper understanding of both arguments, as well as a greater appreciation for the significant role that choices play in God's work.

Genres: Theology

304 pages, Paperback

Published February 29, 2016

Reviews

[Aaron Irlbacher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book. Christensen’s book on the human will is very accessible, and enjoyable to read. He is a humble Calvinist who obviously cares about the issues, but cares equally about his brothers and sisters who have differing viewpoints. His tone is refreshing. His style is inviting. His arguments are compelling. His conclusion, the last chapter, entitled “Absolute Freedom” is worth the price of the book.

[Lawren Woudenberg · Rating 5 out of 5]

Although I thought the beginning chapter almost lost itself in terminology, I kept reading on and found it to be captivating when the terminology and language all came together through helpful allegory and example. It is a compelling case for the compatibility of God's sovereignty and man's freedom of choice. It is an excellent treatise on how God's sovereignty does not destroy man's responsibility or put God in the hook for sin.

[Kristen Petty · Rating 1 out of 5]

I am not sure this is an accurate view of God's Sovereignty. I agree, God's Sovereignty is a highly debated topic among theologians, and this book attempts to clear up some of that debate. However, based upon how God has moved in my life, I do not agree with this stance. God is not a puppeteer or a playwright dictating the outcome of our lives. Rather he is working against evil that exists in creation to bring good to his children. He will ultimately win, but hasn't yet. The reality is, there are some things about God we will never understand on this side of eternity, and books that attempt to make definitive claims should be approached with caution. Ask God for a discerning heart if you choose to pick up this book.

[Erik Spohr · Rating 5 out of 5]

Clear and compelling. Faithfully reasoned approach.