One could rightly say that from God's eternal, out-of-time perspective, our election is predetermined, since to God all time is already laid out and there are no surprises (which again is why the Bible says that His predestination is based on His foreknowledge). But from the human POV (which God also takes from time-to-time, interestingly enough), the one we operate in and make decisions in, the future is yet open, and we have choices to make. From the Bible, one can see both views presented.
To overemphasize either, without recognizing that both are true, is IMHO the real problem the theologians have in dealing with this issue rightly.
I believe what you said is exactly right.
The trouble with this approach is it gives God a "hand-off" approach. This is anything but what the Bible teaches. God is actively involved in human affairs.
God is in control. God's Will will be done. The future (world and ours) is set and decided according to God's plan. We live, work, play, breathe, and die within this plan according to God's sovereign grace.
We need God's view, not our human view.
***One could rightly say that from God's eternal, out-of-time perspective, our election is predetermined, since to God all time is already laid out and there are no surprises (which again is why the Bible says that His predestination is based on His foreknowledge). But from the human POV (which God also takes from time-to-time, interestingly enough), the one we operate in and make decisions in, the future is yet open, and we have choices to make. From the Bible, one can see both views presented.***
If, and I really do mean IF, we accept what you say as Biblically accurate, then please explain to me why there are so many people called Arminians who think it better to focus on the "human POV," instead of the Divine?
Given your opinion in the matter, I think I'll stay focused on seeing things from God's POV. The rest of you are free to stay man focused if you think that better.
In the service of the Lord,
Christian.