Expert: George A. Card,sfo, M.I - 2/27/2008

Question
QUESTION: Can you give me an explanation of predestination? Is it according to grace alone or God's foreknowledge of our response?

ANSWER: Peace

dear "Questioner"
   The general Catholic use the term "Predestination" refers to God's foreknowledge of how we, will freely response to His grace.

   In Classical Protestantism, its more used to mean God's fore-ordaining us to Heaven or Hell, according to His will. In other words our wills have no relation to where we end up. Some say our will is limited, other forms say we have no free will at all. All the "evils"  and goods in this world have been predetermined by God, ever since the fall of Adam and Eve.

         Your servant but His first
         George

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: In the form of of Protestanism in which I was brought up in I was taught that human nature is "totally" depraved. Is this true or are people in there natural condition at least capable of doing a little good?

Alex

Answer
Peace

dear Alex
     Catholics, Orthodox Churches, and most traditional Anglicans reject the doctrine known as Total Depravation, as taught by Luther, Calvin and majority of so called Reformers of the 16th century.
      We are capable of doing good but are inclined to sin because of Original Sin. Those who confess total depraved, tend to reject the idea we have a free will as well.
      I can offer some book suggestions, if want more details.

         your servant but His first
         George