Was Judas's betrayal a result of predestination or free will?

"But there are some among you who don’t believe.” (For Jesus knew from the beginning those who did not believe and the one who would betray him.)" 

John 6:64 (CSB)

For Former Adventists Philippines, John 6:64 primarily highlights God's foreknowledge, not His predetermination.

God's Foreknowledge

Former Adventists Philippines believe that God is fully aware of the future. He knows everything that will happen, including every person's decisions, before they occur. So, when Jesus said, "He knew from the beginning who would not believe and who would betray Him," it demonstrates His omniscient (all-knowing) nature.

This doesn't mean God's knowledge causes the event. It simply means God knew Judas would choose to betray Him, but He didn't force Judas to do so. Judas made his own free decision, and God knew that decision before Judas even made it.

Human Free Will and Accountability

Former Adventists Philippines strongly believe in genuine human free will. Judas could choose between good and evil. His betrayal was a result of his own sinful choice, not because he was "predestined" or "compelled" by God.

Because of his free choice, Judas was responsible and accountable for his actions. He wasn't merely an actor following a "script" set by God.

God's Use of Human Choices for His Purpose

Former Adventists Philippines acknowledge that God used Judas's sinful choice to fulfill His divine purpose—the crucifixion of Jesus for humanity's salvation. However, God used this without violating Judas's free will.

God is sovereign in that He works within the free choices of individuals to accomplish His will without directly causing sin.

In short, for Former Adventists Philippines, Judas was not "predestined" in a way that removed his free will. Instead, God knew from the outset what Judas would choose, and He used Judas's free (but sinful) choice to fulfill His redemptive plan. God's foreknowledge is perfect and complete, but it doesn't remove human moral responsibility.

For more inquiries, contact us:

Email: formeradventist.ph@gmail.com

Website: formeradventistph.blogspot.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/formeradventistph

Phone: 09695143944