Free Will and the Nature of Goodness
The concept of free will and its relation to genuine goodness is a complex topic explored in theological discourse. The question arises: is someone truly good if their actions are predetermined, or does true goodness stem from the ability to choose good over evil?
The Argument for Free Will
The text posits that true goodness is rooted in free will. It suggests that "he who is good by his own choice is really good; but he who is made good by another under necessity is not really good, because he is not what he is by his own choice" (Source: Document: 1739759105915-3cgekr-anf08.txt). This implies that moral value is intrinsically linked to the capacity for independent decision-making.
God's Role and Human Choice
If God made humans incapable of considering evil, the argument goes, they would not be genuinely good. The ability to choose between "friendship or hostility" (Source: Document: 1739759105915-3cgekr-anf08.txt) allows for the development of true moral character. Forcing goodness removes the element of personal agency, thus diminishing its value.
Addressing Blasphemy
The text anticipates an objection: if God influences our thoughts, isn't He responsible for evil actions? The response is a firm rebuke: "Stop! Why do you blaspheme more and more, in saying this? For if we are under His influence in all that we think, you say that He is the cause of fornications, lusts, avarice, and all blasphemy" (Source: Document: 1739759105915-3cgekr-anf08.txt). This highlights the importance of human accountability for one's actions, even within a theological framework.
The Nature of God: Good and Just
The text also explores the seemingly contradictory nature of God as both good and just. It is argued that God's goodness is evident in His long-suffering and welcoming nature towards the penitent, while His justice is demonstrated in His role as judge, rewarding or punishing according to one's actions. "For He is good, in that He is now long-suffering with the penitent, and welcomes them; but just, when acting as judge He will give to every one according to his deserts" (Source: Document: 1739759105915-3cgekr-anf08.txt).
Conclusion
The text emphasizes the crucial role of free will in defining true goodness. It argues against the notion of predetermined morality, asserting that genuine virtue arises from the conscious choice to do good. It also reconciles the concepts of divine goodness and justice, portraying God as both merciful and righteous.