Man’s Free Will Doesn’t Determine the Course of the Universe

Stand to Reason Weekly Podcast

Content provided by Greg Koukl. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Greg Koukl or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://podcastplayer.com/legal.

29d ago 58:00

MP3•Episode home

Greg adds another thought to the objection he addressed in the last episode, then he answers questions about possible proof Proverbs 21:30 is objectively true, drawing lots to get a message from God, grace for sanctification, and blaming God for bad things that happen. Topics:

Commentary: Man’s free will doesn’t determine the course of the universe. (00:00)
Does the fact that reason, logic, and deduction seem to be irreducibly complex prove that Proverbs 21:30 is objectively true and not just religious jargon? (06:00)
How should we take the Acts 1:23–26 passage, where they drew lots to get a message from God about who should replace Judas, and when is it our place to challenge leaders who are teaching something that isn’t biblical? (14:00)
Does the Bible teach that grace is required for sanctification? (29:00)
Why does God get the credit for all good things but doesn’t get the blame for bad things (like natural disasters or disease)? (47:00)

Mentioned on the Show:

Upcoming events with Stand to Reason speakers
Reality Student Apologetics Conference – September 12–13 in Atlanta, GA; October 17–18 in Seattle, WA; November 7–8 in Minneapolis, MN; February 20–21, 2026 in Dallas, TX; March 13–14, 2026 in Philadelphia, PA; April 24–25, 2026 in Los Angeles, CA
Greg’s response to the challenge that it’s arbitrary for God to limit our opportunity to repent and believe to this lifetime
Greg’s illustration in last week’s episode about a man stealing the planks from his neighbor’s porch one by one
The Enemy Within: Straight Talk about the Power and Defeat of Sin by Kris Lundgaard