The Inescapable Truth: Free Will and Human Responsibility

In the midst of theological debates and personal reflections, the question often emerges: 'If Jesus defeated death, then why are people still dying?' This reflective examination is more than a matter of faith; it is a profound understanding of human nature, free will, and the call to responsibility.

The Testimony of the Pharisees

‘They will put you out of the Synagogue and think to kill you is to do God a favor because they have never known God or me. They are the Synagogue of Satan.’ The words of Jesus are as poignant today as they were in the days of the Pharisees. This statement was made in response to the hostility and accusations of those who misunderstood His mission and message. Jesus discusses the misguided perceptions of His critics who were blinded by their narrow, judgmental viewpoints, believing that eliminating those who embodied true faith would somehow bring honor to God.

A Rejection of Sin and Salvation

In Jesus' view, definitive action was required on the part of individuals to accept Him as their savior. Repentance, confession of sins, and surrender to His will were all prerequisites before His grace and salvation could be applied. Jesus identified certain practices and ideologies as stumbling blocks for individuals on their journey of faith. Cleansing from these inaccuracies was essential for true salvation.

The Impact of Belonging to Christ

Once we accept Christ, we become targets for the world's evil. This acceptance comes with the recognition that the world hates us because we belong to Jesus. This hatred is not a sign of evil's triumph but a demand for accountability. Jesus tells His disciples, ‘You shall receive power, when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.’ This mandate implies that the responsibility of spreading the message of salvation and redemption is a calling for those who have accepted Christ.

Free Will's Role in Redemption

Jesus "fixed" everything, but we retain our free will. This twist in the narrative reveals that while Jesus offers redemption and salvation, our choices and actions are crucial. Free will remains a fundamental aspect of human existence, and this autonomy allows us to accept or reject the offer of salvation. As Christ stated, 'It is not for you to know times or seasons which the Father has put in his own authority.' We are called to trust Him with the timing of redemption and to work within the circumstances He has set.

Personal and Collective Responsibility

Our choices, while given by God, are still ours. We are charged with the responsibility to foster love, care, and neighborliness. The death of Christ was a sacrifice for sins, but it does not absolve us from the responsibility to love and support one another. Our call to action remains now, to serve and care for those around us. To forgive and to love, despite the challenges and judgments faced.

A Call to Action

Stop being played for a fool. Jesus did not solve the world's problems through His death; He offered a pathway to redemption and acceptance. The onus lies on us to embrace our free will and choices to make the world a better place. This path includes personal accountability and collective responsibility. Let us work together to forgive, to love, and to understand one another, as Christ taught us. His message is not just about faith but about the practical, everyday actions that reflect His love.