God’s Sovereignty and Human Freedom in the Old Testament

A Historical and Theological Analysis of Divine Will and Human Agency

Authors

  • Frazier Nari Institut Agama Kristen Negeri Ambon, Indonesia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.46495/sdjt.v14i2.306

Keywords:

Kehendak Allah, Kebebasan Manusia, Kehendak Bebas, Historis-Kritis, Biblika Teologis

Abstract

This study employs a qualitative and analytical approach using historical-critical and biblical-theological methods to examine the relationship between God's sovereignty and human freedom in the Old Testament. This topic is significant in theology because it helps clarify human moral responsibility within God's divine plan. The historical-critical approach investigates the historical background, redaction processes, and socio-political influences that shaped these concepts, while the biblical-theological method focuses on key texts to uncover their theological significance. The findings reveal that God's sovereignty does not override human freedom but instead defines its boundaries within the framework of divine law and covenant. Old Testament narratives illustrate a dynamic interaction between human free will and God’s sovereign will in Israel’s history of salvation. This research contributes to Old Testament theology by offering new insights into the balance between divine authority and human agency. Additionally, it provides a relevant perspective for contemporary theological discussions, particularly in understanding human freedom within the Christian faith.

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Published

2025-06-26

How to Cite

Nari, F. (2025). God’s Sovereignty and Human Freedom in the Old Testament: A Historical and Theological Analysis of Divine Will and Human Agency. SANCTUM DOMINE: JURNAL TEOLOGI, 14(2), 275–294. https://doi.org/10.46495/sdjt.v14i2.306

Issue

Vol. 14 No. 2 (2025): June

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Articles

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