God placed a tree in the garden of Eden and told Adam and Eve not to eat from it. The stakes were very high if they violated God's singular and simple command. They voluntarily chose to ignore God's command, albeit it was because they were persuaded by the snake who lied to them, nevertheless that is only an excuse; it does nut nullify the fact God's command was violated.
Notice that free will is so important to God even so important as to allow the conditions to exist that can undermine what is good. Another example, allowing a cunning snake to go around and influence His prized creations.
Even more, allowing people to rush headlong over the side of a cliff into the burning pits of hell to suffer for eternity if that is their wish. Each person is thinking of themselves as a mini-god, lacking the humility to bend knee to the God of creation. God says very plainly that it is not his will that anyone should perish, but that all should come to repentance. It is peoples' stiff-necked rebellion that gets them in trouble. May their will be done.
However, in God's grace, mercy, and love he has made a way for us to become his righteousness through His Son Jesus Christ who is Himself God.
Notice that free will is so important to God even so important as to allow the conditions to exist that can undermine what is good. Another example, allowing a cunning snake to go around and influence His prized creations.
Even more, allowing people to rush headlong over the side of a cliff into the burning pits of hell to suffer for eternity if that is their wish. Each person is thinking of themselves as a mini-god, lacking the humility to bend knee to the God of creation. God says very plainly that it is not his will that anyone should perish, but that all should come to repentance. It is peoples' stiff-necked rebellion that gets them in trouble. May their will be done.
However, in God's grace, mercy, and love he has made a way for us to become his righteousness through His Son Jesus Christ who is Himself God.