The Nature of Goodness and Justice: Exploring a Theological Perspective

This blog post explores the complex relationship between goodness and justice, drawing upon theological arguments presented in early Christian writings. We will delve into the idea that God embodies both qualities, examining how these attributes manifest in divine actions and laws.

Defining Goodness and Justice

The text distinguishes between goodness and justice, suggesting they are not always perceived as unified. Goodness is associated with leniency, long-suffering, and welcoming the penitent. Justice, on the other hand, is linked to judgment and dispensing rewards and punishments according to one's deeds.

Our teacher Himself first said to the Pharisee who asked Him, What shall I do to inherit eternal life?' Do not call me good; for one is good, even the Father who is in the heavens;' and straightway He introduced these words, But if thou shalt wish to enter into life, keep the commandments.' (Source: Document: 1739759105915-3cgekr-anf08.txt)

This passage highlights the idea that true goodness resides solely in God. However, achieving eternal life is connected to adhering to the commandments, which are associated with justice.

God: The Embodiment of Both

The central argument posits that God possesses both goodness and justice. This is demonstrated by God's actions throughout history. Before the law of Moses, God showed goodness by not imposing written laws. After Moses, the written law reflects God's justice.

He is good, inasmuch as it is plain that He did not lay down a law in writing from the times of Adam to Moses; but inasmuch as He had a written law from Moses to the present times, He is just also. (Source: Document: 1739759105915-3cgekr-anf08.txt)

This duality is further emphasized by God's present-day long-suffering with the penitent (goodness) and the future judgment where everyone receives their due (justice).

Free Will and Divine Influence

The document touches upon the concept of free will and its relationship to divine influence. It argues against the notion that God dictates every thought, as this would make God responsible for evil actions.

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)

Instead, it suggests that free will is essential for true goodness. A person who is good by choice is genuinely good, whereas someone compelled to be good lacks authentic virtue. God allows for friendship or hostility to develop in each person based on occasions.

The Problem of Worshipping False Gods

The document addresses the issue of worshipping entities other than God, such as the sun, moon, or idols. It argues that those who worship these things are acting wrongly, but the objects of worship are not themselves sinning, as they are merely passive recipients of misplaced adoration.

For it is not the thing that is worshipped that sins; for it suffers violence at the hands of him who will worship it. (Source: Document: 1739759105915-3cgekr-anf08.txt)

The text suggests that God's long-suffering allows even idol worshippers to eventually turn towards true worship.

Conclusion

The exploration of goodness and justice reveals a nuanced theological perspective. God is presented as both good and just, demonstrating these qualities through different actions and at different times. The importance of free will is highlighted, emphasizing that genuine goodness stems from personal choice. The text ultimately encourages a focus on worshipping the one true God, recognizing that misplaced adoration does not diminish divine power or influence.