The concept of Free Agent in Christianity
In Christianity, the concept of Free Agent encompasses beings who possess the ability to make their own choices without external influence. This notion varies across different denominations. Protestantism emphasizes individuals acting freely under God's power while still acknowledging divine foreknowledge. The Catholic perspective highlights the capability to choose actions distinct from natural agents. Early Christianity reinforces the idea of beings, like humans, acting according to their will. Overall, Free Agent illustrates the interplay between human freedom and divine providence.
Synonyms: Independent, Contractor, Self-employed, Unattached, Open, Mercenary
In Finnish: Vapaa agentti; In Malay: Ejen Percuma; In Spanish: Agente libre; In Swedish: Gratis agent; In Dutch: Vrije Agent; In German: Freier Agent; In French: Agent libre
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Christian concept of 'Free Agent'
From: The Existence and Attributes of God
(1) This refers to a being, like man, who has the ability to make choices and control their own will, without removing themselves from God's overall sovereignty.[1] (2) The concept that God, while naturally just, retains the freedom to choose when to enact justice.[2] (3) An entity that acts with choice and is not constrained by necessity, highlighting God's unlimited freedom to act.[3] (4) Individuals capable of making choices without coercion, affirming the position that freedom exists alongside divine foreknowledge.[4] (5) Entities possessing the ability to make choices independent of external influences; described as living and active through God's power.[5]
From: Ante-nicene Fathers
(1) This is the state of man being made by God from the beginning, with the ability to choose and possess the power to obey God voluntarily.[6] (2) Free agents are individuals whose choices influence future events, which the power of the Logos foresees.[7] (3) These beings, like men, have the capacity to choose, and some of them maintained their original state as created by God.[8] (4) A being that has the ability to act according to its own will, unbound by necessity.[9]
From: Summa Theologica (English translation)
(1) Entities capable of making choices regarding the form and timing of their actions, distinct from natural agents.[10]
From: Bible cyclopedia, critical and expository
(1) These are beings that are governed by the laws of free agency, showing how God's providence works with those who have the ability to make their own choices.[11]