Does John MacArthur Believe in Free Will?
John MacArthur, a prominent theologian and pastor, has been a subject of much debate when it comes to his views on free will. As a theologian who has written extensively on the topic, it is crucial to examine his beliefs and understand the implications of his teachings. In this article, we will delve into the question of whether John MacArthur believes in free will and explore the reasoning behind his stance.
MacArthur, known for his conservative evangelical beliefs, has expressed his opposition to the concept of free will. He argues that the Bible teaches that humans are not free agents who can make choices independently of God’s sovereignty. Instead, MacArthur asserts that human beings are sinners who are bound by their fallen nature and are unable to choose good over evil without divine intervention.
One of the key passages MacArthur uses to support his view is Romans 6:17, which states, “But God be thanked that though you were slaves of sin, you became obedient from the heart to that form of teaching to which you were committed.” MacArthur interprets this passage to mean that humans are not inherently capable of making moral choices; rather, they are slaves to sin and can only be set free through the transformative power of the Gospel.
Furthermore, MacArthur emphasizes the importance of God’s sovereignty in human salvation. He argues that salvation is not contingent on human free will but is solely the work of God’s grace. MacArthur’s teaching aligns with the Calvinist perspective, which asserts that God predestines certain individuals for salvation, and their salvation is not dependent on their own choices.
Despite his opposition to free will, MacArthur acknowledges that the Bible does not explicitly define the extent of human freedom. He believes that while humans may have the ability to make choices, these choices are ultimately influenced by their fallen nature and God’s divine plan. MacArthur suggests that the concept of free will, as commonly understood, is a misinterpretation of human autonomy and is incompatible with the Bible’s teaching on God’s sovereignty.
In conclusion, John MacArthur does not believe in the traditional concept of free will. His theological views emphasize God’s sovereignty and the transformative power of the Gospel in overcoming human sin. While he acknowledges that humans may have the ability to make choices, he argues that these choices are ultimately influenced by their fallen nature and God’s divine plan. Understanding MacArthur’s stance on free will is essential for those who seek to explore the complexities of Christian theology and the nature of human freedom.
