Greg Boyd: Apologies & Explanations How Do Open Theists Account for Jeremiah 1 and Psalm 139?
4 snips
Dec 10, 2025 The discussion dives into how verses from Jeremiah 1 and Psalm 139 challenge the principles of open theism. Greg highlights Jeremiah's calling yet emphasizes his free will to resist. The poetic nuances of Psalm 139 are examined, cautioning against rigid interpretations. Three distinct views on the concept of 'numbered days' are considered, and Greg advises careful reading of poetic texts. Ultimately, he concludes that these scriptures do not definitively disprove open theism.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Jeremiah's Call Doesn't Eliminate Choice
- Jeremiah was called from his mother's womb but still retained the capacity to refuse that call.
- Greg Boyd highlights Jeremiah's reluctance, showing prophetic calling didn't eliminate human choice.
Avoid Overreading Poetic Passages
- Don't read absolute metaphysical claims out of poetic passages like Psalm 139.
- Greg Boyd advises careful exegesis before drawing theological conclusions about divine determinism.
Multiple Readings Of Psalm 139:16
- Psalm 139:16 can be read several ways that don't contradict open theism.
- Boyd suggests alternatives like referring to gestation, specific ordained days, or body parts rather than total life length.