Predestination

Predestination, in theology, is the doctrine that all events have been willed by God, usually with reference to the eventual fate of the individual soul. Explanations of predestination often seek to address the "paradox of free will", whereby God's omniscience seems incompatible with human free will. In this usage, predestination can be regarded as a form of religious determinism; and usually predeterminism.

History

The concept of predestination has a history dating back to the early Christian era, and was further developed by St. Augustine of Hippo. It was later championed by prominent theologians during the Protestant Reformation, such as Martin Luther and John Calvin.

Christian Views

Different Christian denominations have different interpretations of predestination. For example, Roman Catholics believe in the concept of "conditional" predestination, while Calvinists believe in "unconditional" predestination.

Roman Catholicism

In Roman Catholicism, God, foreseeing each creature's future actions and destinies, predestines some to eternal life. This is based on God's foreknowledge of each individual's merits.

Calvinism

In Calvinism, God predestines certain individuals to be saved and others to be damned. This predestination is not based on foreknowledge of any kind, but solely on God's sovereign and merciful will.

Criticism and Controversy

The doctrine of predestination has been the subject of much debate and criticism, both within and outside of Christian circles. Critics argue that it undermines the concept of human free will and responsibility, and that it portrays God as arbitrary and unjust.

See Also

• Determinism
• Free will
• Theodicy
• Sovereignty of God

References

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