Reviewing Geisler's "Chosen But Free"

It goes without saying that there exist various theological topics that have been and are still "hot button" topics. Most can agree that the perhaps most debated topic is the theological stances of Calvinism and Arminianism. Theologians have debated the issues of God's sovereignty and free will for many years and the topic is not likely to go away anytime soon. However, amidst it all, Norman L. Geisler does a particularly exceptional job of pointing out a balanced view amidst the polarized extremist views of the theological spectrum in his book Chosen But Free.

Many Christians tend to consider themselves either Calvinists or Arminianists. They may be more moderate or more extreme in their views, but they tend to lean one way or the other (akin to politics, an analogy suitable for describing the intensity this theological concept ignites). Geisler, however, presents the alternative, a "balanced view" as he refers to it, and demonstrates how both can be blended together in a way that incorporates both ideas as they are presented throughout Scripture. Rather than denying the free will of man, Geisler acknowledges its biblical basis while simultaneously demonstrating God's sovereignty in the matter. Because God is omniscient, He knows what shall come to pass, including the knowledge of who will respond to His invitation of salvation, thereby "electing" them. Rather than polarizing the topic, Geisler excellently wraps the moderate views of both opinions into a cohesive alternative that has foundations in the Word of God.

In a most interesting personal note, I have been conflicted about the topic. Many I know swing both ways on this topic, but I was searching for an alternative. I refused to dismiss either stance, because I could see the concepts of God's sovereignty in the elect and the demonstration of free will clearly outlined in the Bible, but I was confused to how they coexist. Geisler's Chosen But Free was exactly what I needed. I felt as though it summarized a clear yet descriptive conclusion of how both are capable of existing, there is simply the matter of perspective from "both sides of heaven", so to speak. God's view is clear, He knows who will respond and in that matter they are chosen, but from a human perspective it is known to us through free will. This boggled my mind and still does, but I can see it as a clear perspective that seems most reasonable and is most reasonably laid out in Chosen But Free. I intend to examine it more, but I think this appears to be an indeed reasonable conclusion.