The Nature of True Goodness and Free Will

The question of what constitutes true goodness has been debated for centuries. Is goodness an inherent quality, or is it a result of choice? This exploration delves into the concept of free will and its relationship to genuine virtue, drawing upon arguments about divine influence and human agency.

The Importance of Free Will

The text emphasizes the significance of free will in determining true goodness. It posits that goodness derived from one's own choice is more authentic than goodness imposed by another.

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 suggests that genuine virtue stems from the ability to choose good over evil, highlighting the importance of individual autonomy in moral development. If actions are predetermined, the concept of moral responsibility becomes questionable.

Addressing Divine Influence

A counter-argument is presented, questioning whether God influences our thoughts, essentially dictating our actions. The text refutes this idea, 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)

Attributing the origin of negative thoughts and actions to divine influence undermines the concept of individual accountability and paints a problematic picture of the divine being. The text urges respect and honor towards God, emphasizing that individuals should recognize and appreciate the good received.

God's Goodness and Justice

The relationship between God's goodness and justice is explored. It is argued that God's nature encompasses both qualities. He is good in his long-suffering with the penitent, welcoming them back. He is just in his role as judge, rendering decisions based on individual deserts.

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 duality highlights a balanced perspective of the divine, encompassing both mercy and fairness.

The Problem of Worshipping Created Things

The text touches upon the issue of worshipping created things rather than the creator. It argues that those who worship the sun, moon, earth, or even other humans are misguided.

Do not some of you worship the sun, and some the moon, and some water, and some the earth, and some the mountains, and some plants, and some seeds, and some also man, as in Egypt? (Source: Document: 1739759105915-3cgekr-anf08.txt)

The text suggests that worshipping created things is a form of violence against the thing being worshipped, as it is being used in a way it was not intended. Only the "Most Honourable" (God) is worthy of worship.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the text champions the importance of free will in achieving true goodness. By exercising the freedom to choose good, individuals become genuinely virtuous. The text balances this with the understanding of God's goodness and justice, portraying a divine being who is both merciful and fair. It cautions against attributing negative thoughts and actions to God and encourages the worship of the creator rather than created things.