What are the strengths and weaknesses of the free will defense?

The problem of evil is a central issue in the study of theology, philosophy, and apologetics. It challenges the existence of an omnipotent, omnibenevolent, and omniscient God in the face of the evident reality of evil and suffering in the world. One of the most prominent responses to this challenge within Christian thought is the free will defense. This defense asserts that God's creation of human beings with free will is a greater good that justifies the potential and actual occurrence of evil.

Understanding the Free Will Defense

The free will defense, primarily associated with the philosopher Alvin Plantinga, argues that God, in creating human beings, endowed them with free will as it is a greater good. Free will is the ability to choose between different possible courses of action unimpeded. Plantinga suggests that it is logically possible for a world containing free creatures to be more valuable than a world containing no free creatures at all. Thus, God, in allowing for free will, permits evil because it is a necessary condition for free will.

Scriptural Foundations

The concept of free will is supported by various scriptures. For instance, Deuteronomy 30:19 says, "I call heaven and earth to witness against you today, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse. Therefore choose life, that you and your offspring may live." This verse highlights the choice given to humanity, emphasizing the value God places on the freedom to choose.

Strengths of the Free Will Defense

1. Moral Responsibility and Love

One of the significant strengths of the free will defense is its explanation of human moral responsibility. If humans were not free to choose evil, they would not be free to choose good either. Such freedom is necessary for genuine love and moral actions. For love to be meaningful, it must be freely given. Hence, a world where free will exists allows for the highest expressions of love and goodness.

1. Consistency with Scriptural Themes

The defense aligns well with the biblical narrative of human history, from the fall of Adam and Eve to the choices faced by individuals throughout the scriptures. It reflects the consistent theme of human beings making choices and facing the consequences of those choices, whether for good or evil.

1. Addresses the Existence of Natural Evil

While the free will defense primarily addresses moral evil (evil resulting from human actions), it can be extended to natural evil (suffering caused by natural processes). Some theologians argue that natural evils could be a consequence of the disorder introduced into the world by human sin, as suggested in Romans 8:20-22, where creation is said to be subjected to frustration and decay.

Weaknesses of the Free Will Defense

1. The Omnipotence Question

A critical weakness of the free will defense is its potential conflict with the concept of divine omnipotence. If God is truly all-powerful, could He not have created a world where free will exists but without the possibility of evil? This question challenges the necessity of permitting evil for free will to exist.

1. The Problem of Gratuitous Evil

Another significant challenge is the existence of gratuitous evil—suffering that seems to serve no purpose or excessive suffering that could have been prevented without impeding the exercise of free will. Critics argue that such evils do not appear necessary for any greater good, including the good of free will.

1. The Scope of Evil

The sheer scale and depth of evil and suffering in the world also pose a challenge to the free will defense. The Holocaust, genocides, and natural disasters that claim thousands of lives—these events raise difficult questions about whether the free will defense can adequately account for the magnitude of suffering observed.

Reflecting on the Defense

While the free will defense has its strengths, particularly in explaining the relationship between free will and moral responsibility, it also faces significant philosophical and theological challenges. It provides a framework within which some amount of evil can be understood as a necessary counterpart to good, but it struggles with the extremes of evil experienced in the world.

In grappling with these issues, it is crucial for believers to hold onto the hope and sovereignty of God, as expressed in scriptures like Romans 8:28: "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." This verse does not dismiss the reality of evil but reassures us of God's ultimate purpose and goodness.

In conclusion, the free will defense offers valuable insights into the nature of love, freedom, and moral responsibility. However, it also invites believers and skeptics alike to continue exploring and questioning the depths of these complex issues, always seeking deeper understanding and greater faith in the midst of life's challenges.