I, too tend to avoid vain philosophies of man especially atheists. However, in researching the Virgin Birth I was lead to a number of these atheist sites which I found intriguing. While kosta50 may feel there is no connection, I happen to think otherwise. You will find many of the same arguments about original sin and free will being argued by Christians here are the same ones atheists argue. I especially like the argument against original sin because the natural conclusion to this is man is basically good which is what some churches and atheists preach. Sorry, this is out and out heresy bordering on apostasy.
From my readings of the Church’s original position, the concept of synergistic free will (man choosing God) did not exist. Historically this view was introduced by Pelegian. Free will in the form of synergists was deemed heresy by the early church and the Church’s position was formalized at the Council of Orange in 529. Yet it’s prevalent throughout the church today including the Eastern Orthodox. I have not been able to trace when, where, or why this doctrine occurred in the Eastern Orthodox but I do know the source.
As OP stated, man has free will but it NEVER moves towards God. God calls the shots.
Do I think there is heresy here? Well, let’s see-1) the early church fathers thought so; 2) Pelegian was outcast; and 3) atheists support the notion. While this all may seem innocent, it is clear that heresy has entered the church.
And please don’t tell me about how long your church has been here. The Catholics tell me the same thing. That is nothing more than the traditions of men.
That is still the teaching of the Church. God always makes the first step; the Call; He knocks on your door. But thereafter it is up to you to either follow Him or shut the door.
This illustrates semantic obstacles to our otherwise not so distant teachings, and Kolokotronis always brings up the subject of semnatics and how they affect us. I couldn't agree more.
In your case, the "free will" is interpreted as humans choosing God. Fat chance! OP explains that Calvinsits believe in the free will as well, but following regeneration, which is essentially Orthodox belief (and I suppose Catholic, correct Tantumergo?), but the very term -- regerneration (and when it happens) becomes a stumbling term since the Orthodox/Catholic understand regeneration differently from Protestants.