The Nature of True Goodness: Choice, Freedom, and Divine Justice

This exploration delves into the concepts of free will, true goodness, and divine justice, drawing upon ancient perspectives to illuminate these complex philosophical and theological ideas. The core argument centers on the notion that genuine goodness stems from individual choice and freedom, rather than compulsion, and how this relates to God's nature and our relationship with the divine.

Free Will and the Essence of Goodness

The text emphasizes the importance of free will in defining true goodness. It posits that "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 perspective suggests that moral value is intrinsically linked to the ability to choose between good and evil. If an individual is forced to act in a certain way, their actions, however outwardly virtuous, lack the essential quality of self-determined goodness.

Implications of Determinism

The text further argues against a deterministic view where God dictates every thought and action. It challenges the idea that "everything that we think He makes us to think," (Source: Document: 1739759105915-3cgekr-anf08.txt) deeming such a notion blasphemous. If God were the direct cause of all thoughts, the text implies, He would also be responsible for negative impulses like "fornications, lusts, avarice, and all blasphemy." (Source: Document: 1739759105915-3cgekr-anf08.txt)

This line of reasoning underscores the importance of individual accountability and the inherent risk involved in granting humans free will. The possibility of choosing evil is the necessary condition for the possibility of choosing good.

Divine Justice and Long-Suffering

The text addresses the apparent contradiction of a benevolent God allowing impiety and wrongdoing to persist. It explains this by stating that God is "long-suffering to all who are in impiety, as a merciful and philanthropic father, knowing that impious men become pious." (Source: Document: 1739759105915-3cgekr-anf08.txt)

This reveals a concept of divine patience and the belief in the potential for transformation. God's forbearance is not indifference, but rather an act of grace, allowing individuals the opportunity to turn away from harmful behaviors and embrace righteousness.

The Balance of Goodness and Justice

The text further explores the relationship between God's goodness and justice. It presents the idea that God is both good and just, displaying goodness through long-suffering and welcoming the penitent, while demonstrating justice by acting as a judge who "will give to every one according to his deserts." (Source: Document: 1739759105915-3cgekr-anf08.txt)

This balance highlights the complexity of the divine nature. God's goodness is tempered by justice, ensuring accountability for actions, while justice is softened by goodness, offering opportunities for redemption.

The Problem of Idolatry and True Worship

The text also touches upon the issue of idolatry and the importance of directing worship towards the true God. It criticizes the practice of worshipping created things like the sun, moon, earth, or even humans. (Source: Document: 1739759105915-3cgekr-anf08.txt)

The argument is that such worship is misdirected and ultimately harmful. It suggests that the object of worship "suffers violence at the hands of him who will worship it," (Source: Document: 1739759105915-3cgekr-anf08.txt) implying a distortion of the natural order and a subjugation of the worshipped entity.

God's Unique Position

The text emphasizes that God does not require honor, but humans "ought to look to what is right, and to answer with thankful voice Him who does you good in all things." (Source: Document: 1739759105915-3cgekr-anf08.txt) This suggests that true worship is not about fulfilling a divine ego, but rather about recognizing and appreciating the source of all goodness and expressing gratitude for the blessings received.

Conclusion

The text presents a compelling argument for the importance of free will in achieving true goodness. It suggests that genuine virtue arises from conscious choice and that divine justice is tempered by long-suffering and the potential for redemption. By understanding these principles, individuals can strive to cultivate inner goodness and direct their worship towards the ultimate source of all blessings. The interplay of free will, divine justice, and the pursuit of true worship shapes a path towards a more meaningful and virtuous existence.