Free Will and the Nature of Goodness

This blog post explores the concept of free will and its relationship to genuine goodness, drawing upon ancient perspectives on morality and divine influence. It examines arguments surrounding human choice, divine intervention, and the implications for understanding both good and evil.

The Importance of Free Will

The text emphasizes the significance of free will in defining true goodness. It argues that an individual is truly good when their goodness stems from their own volition, not from external compulsion.

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 posits that coerced goodness lacks authenticity. Genuine moral value arises from freely choosing good over evil.

Divine Influence and Human Choice

A critical point raised is whether God influences human thoughts, and if so, what the implications are for free will and moral responsibility. The text strongly rejects the idea that God dictates every thought, arguing that such a notion leads to blasphemy.

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)

Attributing the origin of evil thoughts to God absolves individuals of responsibility for their actions, which creates a problematic theological stance. The text underscores the importance of personal accountability and the freedom to choose one's path.

God's Justice and Mercy

The document also touches on the balance between God's goodness and justice. It suggests that God's goodness is evident in his patience and welcoming of those who repent, while his justice is demonstrated in his role as judge, rewarding or punishing individuals according to their 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)

This perspective reconciles divine mercy with the necessity of just retribution, highlighting the multifaceted nature of God's character.

The Problem of Idolatry and Divine Honor

The text delves into the issue of idolatry and the honor due to God. It argues that directing gratitude or worship towards entities other than God diminishes the divine role and risks complicity in deceit.

so also God does not do you good, when He is asked along with many who can do nothing. (Source: Document: 1739759105915-3cgekr-anf08.txt)

The text suggests that while God may not be angered by misplaced worship, He will not participate in a deception where credit is given to idols that have done nothing. Furthermore, it asserts that humans should inherently recognize and offer thanks to God for the benefits they receive.

Conclusion

The exploration of free will within this text underscores the significance of individual choice in defining true goodness. It rejects the concept of divine determinism of thoughts and actions, emphasizing personal accountability and the importance of directing worship and gratitude appropriately. The text provides a framework for understanding the interplay between divine influence, human agency, and the nature of morality.