Death/Compatibilism
I have being having dreams and visions (I’m careful to use that word) about death. I understand that it is the penalty for my iniquity, but I don’t understand why I’ve become so hung-up on this issue recently. I know I have something much better waiting for me, but I’m still to be reminded of my fraility.
Yet you do not know what your life will be like tomorrow. You are just a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes away.
James 4:14
I have confidence in the providence of my Creator, yet it does not negate the fear, loneliness, and anxiety that death brings to mind.
And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life?
Matthew 6:27
Compatiblism, on a seemingly unrelated note, is also something that continues to daunt my thoughts. I still struggle with this doctrine, but I’m beggining to see what it is. To say: “freedom inside the divine plan of God” caught me up for a while, but with the analysis provided by “Why I’m Not An Arminian” is making it more clear. To understand that Arminians view moral responsibility contingent on the fact that we have the ability to choose to the contrary (Libertarian free will), but that Calvinists view that, although you can’t choose to the contrary (inside of God’s plan), you still make free choices. I must admit it is baffling, but there are texts that speak very clearly on the issue.
Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am being tempted by God,” for God cannot be tempted with evil, and he himself tempts no one. But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire.
James 1:13–14this Jesus, delivered up according to the definite plan and foreknowledge of God, you crucified and killed by the hands of lawless men.
Acts 2:23Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling,
Philippians 2:12