The longer I live, the more I am persuaded by the theological view of God titled “Open Theism”. Made famous in recent years by Dr. Greg Boyd, “Open theism makes the case for a personal God who is open to influence through the prayers, decisions, and actions of people” according to the all-knowing Wikipedia.
In layman’s terms, it means that God can change his mind. God knows the outcome of every situation, but He is able to infinitely manipulate circumstances around our decisions, and can be persuaded by our actions and faith etc, so to award a different outcome that would have normally happened? Got it? I understand that this is a very controversial subject, which may cause stir and opposition, but with recent events in my life, I am fully convinced God can make good, out of bad decisions; both other peoples decisions concerning you, and our own decisions.
We always try to plan our own course in life, but Proverbs, a book in the Old Testament of the Bible clearly tells us that God determines man’s steps (Prov. 16.9) As we fumble along life’s path, we are all like little kids trying to find the right light switch in the darkness. Sometimes we turn on the right light, and sometimes we don’t. Eventually though, with Gods prompting voice, we find the right switch and everything appears calmer, brighter and logical again, and, we get perspective.
As we scramble to illuminate our lives with the right switch, other voices can drown out the one we should be listening to. If we get the wrong switch, the “Open Theism” view (which I agree with) would encourage us that God has another (new) opportunity that will allow us to turn the right one on. Same destiny, different strategy, radical Grace.
I’d love to hear your thoughts on this “Open Theism” view. Although, I would appreciate if you do want to discuss this, first have a read at the following articles and digest it for a day or two:
http://www.gregboyd.org/category/essays/essays-open-theism/
http://www.carm.org/religious-movements/open-theism
Love and kisses,
Normy.
{ 1 comment }
My open theist fiancé! Oh no! I tend to argue the side of the Calvinist….Can we still get married?!
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