The Thomistic Institute Predestination and Human Freedom | Prof. Bruce Marshall
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Jul 3, 2025 
Bruce Marshall, a renowned theologian and Lehman Professor of Christian Doctrine at Southern Methodist University, discusses the intricate dynamics of predestination and human freedom. He delves into biblical foundations and Catholic teachings, emphasizing the balance between divine sovereignty and human choice. Marshall explores the nature of evil and God's foreknowledge, alongside insights from historical councils. He also addresses the evolution of these theological concepts from the 17th century to modern interpretations, providing a thought-provoking analysis of grace and salvation.
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Challenges of Predestination
- Predestination poses intellectual and religious challenges about God's power and human freedom.
- It raises questions about divine will, salvation, and justice, especially regarding who is predestined.
Biblical Basis for Predestination
- Biblical texts like Romans 8 and Ephesians 1 clearly teach that God predestines and chooses individuals.
- Predestination is tied to God's election and foreknowledge, rooted in biblical election of Israel.
God Does Not Predestine Evil
- Catholic teaching emphasizes God never wills or predestines evil acts by rational creatures.
- Evil is foreknown but not willed by God, while salvation is both foreknown and willed by God.