The Doctrine of Free Will

👉🏾👉🏾👉🏾 On the Doctrine of #Free_Will Brethren esteemed in faith and lovers of the apostolic teachings, we gather under the sanctity of our common hope in Christ to delve into the profound mystery of free will—a gift divinely bestowed upon man, as recorded in the holy writ and expounded by the Church Fathers. The Dignity of Man and the Gift of Free Will From the sacred pages of Genesis, we learn that man was created in the imago Dei, that is, in the image of God Himself (Genesis 1:26-27). This divine image endows man with a unique capacity among all creatures—the capacity for free will. Just as God exercises sovereignty over creation, so too man, His earthly image-bearer, is granted the freedom to govern his actions, to choose between good and evil. Job poetically affirms this truth, stating, "Your hands shaped me and made me" (Job 10:8), underscoring the craftsmanship of God in fashioning man with such glorious attributes. The Consequence of Free Will: Choice and Predestination While it is God’s fervent desire that "all men be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth" (1 Timothy 2:4), the fulfillment of this divine will hinges on the exercise of human free will. Our Lord does not compel salvation; rather, He offers it freely, allowing each soul to respond out of its own volition. This interplay between divine predestination and human freedom forms the core of our moral existence. The Struggle Between Good and Evil Saint Athanasius vividly illustrates the human condition through the prism of nobility and humility. When man fails to recognize his nobility—his intrinsic worth and the high calling to which he is summoned—he descends into spiritual slavery, becoming subjugated by those vices that should have no dominion over him. This 'slavery of will,' as it might be termed, manifests when man, swayed by his baser instincts, opts for sin, thereby aligning himself not with divine virtues but with the corrupting influences of the world. The Path of Sin and Its Remediation The wisdom of Solomon admonishes us against desiring death through the errors of our life (Wisdom 1:12). Human beings, in their freedom, can choose actions that lead to spiritual and eternal death. The Apostle James expands on this, teaching that temptation is born of personal desire, which, when conceived, gives birth to sin, and sin, when it is fully grown, gives rise to death (James 1:14-15). Yet, this dire progression is not inevitable. The bondage of the will to sin is not a permanent state if one turns towards God’s mercy and grace. Salvation Through Submission to God Apostle Peter calls us to a higher obedience, to become slaves not to sin but to righteousness (2 Peter 2:19). In embracing God’s will, we exchange the yoke of worldly bondage for the light yoke of divine glory. It is through willing submission to God that we find true freedom—the freedom to act in accordance with our created purpose and to partake in the divine nature. Practical Steps Towards Freedom in God The struggle between the flesh and the spirit is an enduring conflict in the Christian journey. However, it is through the spiritual disciplines of prayer and fasting that we fortify our spirit and enhance our capacity to choose the good. Christ Himself assures us that our prayers, when offered in sincerity and faith, will not be disregarded (Matthew 7:7). Therefore, let us approach the throne of grace boldly, seeking the strength to sever the cords of sinful desires that entangle our will. A Prayerful Exhortation May God, in His infinite mercy, cut the ropes of sin that bind our wills. Let us strive to align our wills with His divine will, remembering always that in the freedom to choose lies the path to true sanctity and salvation. As we navigate the complexities of our moral choices, may we ever hold fast to the promise of divine assistance and the hope of eternal life bestowed upon us through the gracious love of our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen. ©John's Repentance Follow our Telegram group every day and share it with your friends https://t.me/orthodoxQnAs.