Open Theism

Definition

Open theism is a theological view that posits that God has granted human beings genuine free will, meaning that the future is not entirely predetermined. This perspective suggests that God's knowledge of the future includes all possible outcomes based on human choices, allowing for divine action to be responsive and relational rather than deterministic. Open theism challenges classical views of God's omniscience and sovereignty, emphasizing a dynamic relationship between God and humanity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Open theism emerged in the late 20th century as a response to classical theism and has gained traction among some theologians who seek to reconcile divine sovereignty with human freedom.
2. Proponents argue that open theism allows for a more personal relationship with God, as it suggests that God can change His plans based on human actions and decisions.
3. Critics of open theism claim that it undermines God's omniscience by suggesting that there are aspects of the future that are unknowable.
4. The view maintains that while God knows all possible futures, He does not have exhaustive knowledge of which specific future will occur due to the free will of individuals.
5. Open theism encourages believers to engage in prayer and seek guidance from God, believing that their choices can genuinely influence outcomes in their lives.

Review Questions

• How does open theism redefine the concept of God's knowledge compared to classical theism?
  • Open theism redefines God's knowledge by asserting that while God knows all possible outcomes based on human choices, He does not know with certainty which specific future will occur. This contrasts with classical theism, which holds that God possesses exhaustive knowledge of all events, including future actions. In open theism, God's knowledge is dynamic and relational, allowing for genuine interaction with humanity and recognizing the impact of human free will on divine action.
• Evaluate the implications of open theism for understanding divine action in relation to human decision-making.
  • The implications of open theism for understanding divine action are significant, as it suggests that God's responses are influenced by human decisions. This means that prayer and human actions have real consequences within God's plans. Unlike deterministic views, where outcomes are preordained, open theism allows for a cooperative relationship where God interacts with humanity in a way that acknowledges their choices. This perspective emphasizes moral responsibility and encourages believers to actively participate in shaping their own lives through their decisions.
• Critically analyze how open theism addresses potential theological dilemmas regarding evil and suffering in the world.
  • Open theism addresses theological dilemmas regarding evil and suffering by proposing that not all events are predetermined by God, allowing for human agency to play a significant role in moral choices. This view posits that while God is sovereign and desires good for creation, He grants humans free will, which can lead to evil actions and suffering. This perspective offers an understanding of God as empathetic and responsive rather than distant, encouraging believers to see their struggles as part of a relational dynamic with a loving God who mourns with them in their pain and seeks to bring about redemption through their free choices.

Related terms

Free Will: The ability of individuals to make choices that are not predetermined, allowing for personal responsibility and moral accountability.

Divine Sovereignty: The concept that God is supreme and has ultimate authority over all creation, including the course of human events.

Classical Theism: A traditional view of God that emphasizes His unchanging nature, omniscience, and the belief that the future is fully known and predetermined by God.