Christine,
Your friend has presented a very interesting dilemma. Several of the things he/she states are true. God did know Adam and Eve would disobey and eat the fruit. Jesus was foreordained before the foundations of the world to be our sacrifice (1 Peter 1:20). However, we aren't puppets on a string. The redemption of our savior is very precious indeed. God knew what He was doing when He created ALL things. God knew Adam and Eve would disobey, that's why Jesus was foreordained before the foundation of the world to die for our sins. God isn't running a damage control center. He didn't lose any battle to satan. He created satan, and satan is fulfilling his purpose in God's plan as well. We, in turn, are part of God's plan. We have the ability to make choices, but God knows, and tells us in scripture, that noone seeks God, noone is righteous, our righteousnes are as filthy rags. But through the salvation of His son Jesus Christ, we have been freed from the bondage of sin and given the incredible gift of God's grace to live for Him. I hope this sheds light on your dilemma.
May God's power and peace be with you,
Ron
