Free Will and the Nature of Goodness

The concept of free will and its relationship to genuine goodness is a complex theological question. How can humans be truly good if their actions are predetermined? Exploring this question reveals insights into the nature of God, human responsibility, and the very definition of what it means to be "good."

The Importance of Choice

The provided text directly addresses the notion that God ought to have created humans incapable of thinking "of such things" (referring to impiety). The counter-argument presented hinges on the significance of free will:

You who say this do not know what is free-will, and how it is possible to be really good; 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 passage emphasizes that genuine goodness stems from choosing to be good. If goodness is imposed or necessitated, it lacks authenticity. The capacity to choose between good and evil is essential for true moral value.

God's Role and Human Responsibility

The text further argues that if humans are merely puppets of divine influence, then God becomes the cause of all actions, both virtuous and wicked:

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. Cease your evil-speaking, ye who ought to speak well of Him, and to bestow all honour upon Him. (Source: Document: 1739759105915-3cgekr-anf08.txt)

Attributing all thoughts and actions to God absolves humans of responsibility and, more problematically, implicates God in immoral behavior. This perspective underscores the importance of human agency and accountability. God allows for the possibility of evil, not because He desires it, but because He values the freedom that makes genuine goodness possible.

The Balance of Goodness and Justice

The text also touches upon the relationship between God's goodness and justice. God's goodness is demonstrated through long-suffering with the penitent, welcoming them back. Justice comes into play when He acts as judge, rewarding or punishing according to one's actions. (Source: Document: 1739759105915-3cgekr-anf08.txt)

This highlights the multifaceted nature of God. He is not simply a benevolent force, but also a just arbiter. The concept of free will is crucial here, as it provides the foundation for a just judgment. Individuals are held accountable for their choices because they possess the freedom to choose.

Conclusion

The concept of free will is presented not as a limitation on God's power, but as a necessary condition for the existence of genuine goodness. By granting humans the freedom to choose, God allows for the possibility of authentic virtue and meaningful relationship. The balance between divine influence and human agency remains a topic of theological debate, but this text strongly advocates for the importance of free will in defining what it means to be truly good.