The Christological Case for Compatibilism
- Theology
- Philosophy
- Publisher: Cascade Books (Wipf and Stock)
- Published: 2026
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Publisher's Description
Classical Christology entails compatibilism. In other words, the teaching about Jesus Christ found in Scripture and affirmed in historical orthodoxy entails that free agency and moral responsibility are compatible with determinism. The Christological Case for Compatibilism demonstrates that only compatibilism is able to make sense of Christ’s freedom in light of his two natural wills, his righteousness and moral praiseworthiness, and his impeccability. Libertarian models of free agency, which require either the categorical ability to do otherwise or ultimate sourcehood (or both), cannot account for the harmony of Christ’s wills. Hard determinism, which undermines free agency and moral responsibility, likewise cannot account for Christ’s merit or voluntary obedience. The Christological Case for Compatibilism is a work of analytic theology that draws heavily from biblical and historical theology in conversation with contemporary analytic philosophy.
Endorsements (4)
“How exciting to see another philosophically fluent defender of the Calvinist/compatibilist view of free will. Randall Johnson deploys an argument that has a long tradition (in Luther and Edwards among others), but which finds here a comprehensive defense using the best tools of contemporary analytical theology. The clarity and carefulness of his argument means that opponents must engage: libertarian critics of the Calvinist view are challenged to pick which premises they reject and pay the intellectual costs of these commitments. One who affirms a reasonably orthodox view of Christ, Johnson insists, may find himself pushed to accept the Calvinist view of free will. C’est la vie!”
“Normally, a defense of compatiblism is discussed under divine providence, but Randy Johnson argues for its defense in Christology. His defense is biblical, theological, and convincing. I highly recommend this book. It is an excellent contribution to the ongoing discussion.”
“Randall K. Johnson draws deeply from the Reformed tradition to argue that classical Christology entails the compatibility of determinism with human freedom and moral responsibility. The result is the most comprehensive and sophisticated treatment of this issue to date, written in lucid and engaging prose. Johnson significantly advances the debate over providence and human agency, offering Christian incompatibilists like me yet another challenge to reckon with.”
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