[MineralMan]

"It seems that the plan is only in effect, when it's a good thing...when bad things happen, it's a divine mystery??!!

So if there is a plan, how does our free-will fit in?"

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According to my understanding of the belief, the plan is always in effect. Our intellects are just too puny to understand it.

Being of puny intellect, I would not attempt to explain it.

As for free will, it all depends on which sect of Christianity you adhere to. Some of the Calvinist branches would argue that free will is really just a myth, and that every second of every life is planned and known.

Other sects grant you the free will, but still will admit that the deity is really in charge.

Basically, it seems to me that you have the illusion of free will, but subject to the will of the deity.

Again, though, what do I know? I'm just a lowly atheist. I guess I have free will.

[stuartcr]

I'll go with the illusion, besides, the good thing about these topics, is that nobady can be proven wrong....but I guess ole Ken knows by now.

[ksen]

As for free will, it all depends on which sect of Christianity you adhere to. Some of the Calvinist branches would argue that free will is really just a myth, and that every second of every life is planned and known.

You are mistaken about what Calvinists believe about Free-Will. We believe you are free to do whatever you want. If you want to know more go ahead and ask in the Religion forum.

[Gamecock]

***Some of the Calvinist branches would argue that free will is really just a myth, and that every second of every life is planned and known.***

To be more precise, in our fallen state our free will causes us to choose poorly, so to speak. It is not until we have been regenerated that our free will is capable of professing faith in Christ and willing to please God.