Free Will, Goodness, and God: An Exploration

This blog post explores the relationship between free will, true goodness, and the nature of God, drawing upon ancient perspectives on these complex concepts. The central question examined is whether genuine goodness can exist without the freedom to choose between good and evil, and how this freedom aligns with the nature of a benevolent and just God.

The Necessity of Free Will for True Goodness

A key argument presented suggests that true goodness arises from choice, not compulsion. Someone "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 perspective emphasizes that moral value is intrinsically linked to the ability to choose freely.

Without the capacity to choose, actions, even those that appear outwardly virtuous, lack genuine moral significance. If individuals are merely puppets of a higher power, their apparent goodness is simply a reflection of that power's will, not an expression of their own moral character.

God's Role in Human Choice

The text further addresses the potential objection that God should have created humans incapable of evil. It counters this argument by asserting the importance of free will. God "has contrived that friendship or hostility should be in each man by occasions" (Source: Document: 1739759105915-3cgekr-anf08.txt). This implies that God allows for the possibility of both good and evil choices, enabling individuals to develop their moral character through their own decisions.

However, this raises a challenging question: If God allows for free will, is He then responsible for the evil that results from human choices? The text acknowledges this concern, cautioning against 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). It defends God's allowance of free will, emphasizing that attributing all human thoughts and actions to divine influence would make God the author of evil.

God's Goodness and Justice

The document also explores the apparent contradiction between God's goodness and justice. It suggests that God's goodness is expressed through his long-suffering with the penitent, while his justice is manifested in his role as judge, rewarding or punishing individuals according to their deeds. "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 distinction highlights the multifaceted nature of God, who embodies both mercy and fairness. He offers opportunities for redemption and demonstrates unwavering justice.

Avoiding Divided Allegiance

The text touches upon the concept of exclusive devotion to God, addressing the idea of offering gratitude to both God and other entities. It argues that divided allegiance diminishes God's role and effectiveness. "God does not do you good, when He is asked along with many who can do nothing" (Source: Document: 1739759105915-3cgekr-anf08.txt). This perspective suggests that God's blessings are contingent upon recognizing His unique power and authority.

Conclusion

In summary, the document posits that free will is essential for true goodness, that God allows for free will without being the author of evil, and that God embodies both goodness and justice. The text emphasizes the importance of exclusive devotion to God, recognizing His unique role in bestowing blessings. These ideas provide a framework for understanding the complex relationship between human choice, divine nature, and the pursuit of a morally meaningful life.