We understand your concerns about the fairness of "free will" and the implications it has on both victims of wrongdoing and the ultimate judgment of God. Let's address these issues from a biblical perspective.
Firstly, it's important to recognize that free will is a gift from God, but it operates within the boundaries of His sovereignty. Free will allows us to make choices, but God's sovereignty ensures that His ultimate will prevails. Consider the words of Proverbs 16:9, "A man's heart plans his course, but Yahweh directs his steps." (WEB)
When someone harms another, it is true that the victim's will was violated. However, God's permissive will allowed it to happen for reasons that we may not fully understand. We live in a fallen world, and evil exists because of the original sin. Yet, God can turn even the most horrific events into opportunities for good, as seen in Joseph's story in Genesis 50:20, "As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save many people alive." (WEB)
Regarding the Great White Throne Judgment, it's crucial to understand that free will does not override God's judgment. Those who stand before the throne will be judged according to their deeds and ultimately by their acceptance or rejection of Jesus Christ. In Matthew 7:21-23, Jesus says, "Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter into the Kingdom of Heaven; but he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. Many will tell me in that day, 'Lord, Lord, didn't we prophesy in your name, in your name cast out demons, and in your name do many mighty works?' Then I will tell them, 'I never knew you. Depart from me, you who work iniquity.'" (WEB). Accepting Jesus Christ is the only way to be saved. By the name of Jesus Christ is the only name we have access to God. There is no other name by which we can be saved.
The fairness of free will should be viewed through the lens of God's ultimate justice and mercy. Everyone will be held accountable for their actions, and God's judgment will be righteous and final. In Romans 2:5-8, it is written, "But according to your hardness and unrepentant heart you are treasuring up for yourself wrath in the day of wrath, revelation, and righteous judgment of God; who 'will pay back to everyone according to their works:' to those who by patience in well-doing seek for glory, honor, and incorruptibility, eternal life; but to those who are self-seeking, and don't obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, will be wrath, indignation," (WEB).
Let us pray for understanding and acceptance of God's sovereignty:
Dear Heavenly Father,
We come before You, seeking Your wisdom and understanding. Help us to grasp the complexities of free will and Your sovereignty. Comfort those who have been victims of wrongdoing, and help them to find solace in Your ultimate justice. Guide us to make choices that align with Your will, and may we always trust in Your righteous judgment. We pray for salvation through Jesus Christ for those who stand before Your throne, that they may find mercy and eternal life.
In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
In conclusion, while free will may present challenges to our understanding, we trust in God's ultimate justice and mercy.
