The Nature of True Goodness and Free Will
This blog post explores the concepts of free will, true goodness, and the nature of worship, drawing from ancient perspectives. It delves into the idea that genuine goodness stems from personal choice and the implications of this freedom on our relationship with the divine.
The Essence of Free Will
The text emphasizes the importance of free will in defining true goodness. It argues that being good by one's own choice is fundamentally different from being made good by another under necessity. A person who is compelled to be good is not truly good, because their actions are not a reflection of their own volition. (Source: Document: 1739759105915-3cgekr-anf08.txt)
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 concept underscores the idea that moral value is intrinsically linked to the freedom to choose between good and evil.
The Problem of Worship
The document raises questions about the nature of worship and the objects of devotion. It points out that many people worship various elements of creation, such as the sun, moon, water, earth, mountains, plants, and even other human beings, referencing practices in Egypt as an example. (Source: Document: 1739759105915-3cgekr-anf08.txt)
The text suggests that the things being worshipped are not at fault; rather, it is the worshipper who commits a wrong by directing their devotion inappropriately. The object of worship "suffers violence at the hands of him who will worship it." (Source: Document: 1739759105915-3cgekr-anf08.txt) It's argued that true justice dictates that the one who compels the act of worship bears the responsibility unless the worshipped willingly accepts undeserved honor.
God's Long-Suffering and the Path to Piety
The text addresses the question of why a true God does not simply remove those who engage in impious worship. The answer lies in God's wisdom and long-suffering. It is posited that God, acting as a "merciful and philanthropic father," allows impious individuals to continue, knowing that some will eventually turn toward piety. (Source: Document: 1739759105915-3cgekr-anf08.txt) Many who once worshipped "base and senseless things" eventually become sober and begin to pray to the true God, illustrating the potential for transformation and redemption.
God's Honor and the Rejection of Deceit
The document delves into the idea of giving thanks and honor to God, even if it seems that God doesn't explicitly claim such honor. It's argued that humans should recognize and respond to the good that God provides. (Source: Document: 1739759105915-3cgekr-anf08.txt)
The text uses an analogy of physicians to illustrate God's stance on shared credit. If many powerless physicians promise a cure, a truly capable one might refrain, knowing the others would take the credit. Similarly, God may withhold benefits when asked alongside those who cannot provide anything, not out of indignation, but to avoid being complicit in deceit. God will not allow credit to be given to idols who have done nothing.
Conclusion
The passages highlight the complexities of free will, the pitfalls of misdirected worship, and the nature of a patient and merciful God. True goodness springs from the freedom to choose, and genuine worship should be directed toward the one who is truly deserving of honor. God's long-suffering provides an opportunity for transformation, and his rejection of shared credit reflects his commitment to truth and justice.