Related Coverage

About this Special Report

Does God know the future? An overview of the open theism debate

A time for 'Berean' Christians

Is open theism consistent with biblical Christianity?

Patterson concerned about growth of open theism

New view of God 'damaging' to faith, prof says in radio interview

Divine foreknowledge in Baptist theology

Resources on Open Theism

Editorial: A modest appeal to the open theists: Meet Job

Web Exclusive: Pagan philosophy’s influence on open theism

Florida Baptist Witness asked theologian Mark Rathel of The Baptist College of Florida in Graceville to summarize the tenets of open theism which denies God's exhaustive knowledge of the future. Although not currently a major issue among Southern Baptists, open theism is gaining ground among evangelicals.

Rathel's theological essays, while irenic and fair, should leave no doubt with our readers that this theology is one that Baptists must reject as unbiblical and harmful to believers. Also provided are two recent news stories about open theism featuring the concerns of Paige Patterson, president of Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, Wake Forest, N.C., and Bruce Ware, professor of theology at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, Louisville, Ky.

The Witness is publishing this information in keeping with our commitment to help Florida Baptists “contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all handed down to the saints” (Jude 3).