The Nature of True Goodness: Choice vs. Necessity

The concept of "goodness" has been debated for centuries. Is someone truly good if their actions are compelled, or does true goodness stem from free will and conscious choice? Examining this question reveals profound insights into human nature and the divine perspective on morality.

Free Will and Genuine Goodness

The text asserts that genuine goodness arises from free will, not from compulsion. "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 forced obedience or predetermined actions lack the moral value of freely chosen virtuous acts.

The Role of Occasions

God allows for friendship and hostility to arise in each person through various occasions. This freedom to choose one's path, whether toward good or evil, is essential for the development of genuine character. Without the possibility of choosing wrongly, the choice to do good loses its significance.

The Dangers of Blasphemy and Attributing Evil to God

The text cautions against attributing all thoughts and actions to divine influence. "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). This highlights the importance of individual responsibility and the rejection of deterministic views that absolve individuals of their moral choices. Blaming God for human failings is considered blasphemous, underscoring the sanctity of divine nature and the significance of human agency.

God's Perspective on Honor and Deceit

The text explores the idea of giving credit where it's due, particularly in the context of divine healing. It argues that God may withhold benefits if He is asked alongside entities that have no power to provide aid. "So also God does not do you good, when He is asked along with many who can do nothing" (Source: Document: 1739759105915-3cgekr-anf08.txt). This isn't necessarily out of indignation, but rather to avoid being complicit in deceit, where idols receive undeserved credit for divine actions.

Injury and Idolatry

The passage further suggests that if those who worship senseless idols were not naturally injured by doing so, God might have even endured such practices. This hints at the inherent harm in misdirected worship and the importance of acknowledging the true source of blessings.

Goodness and Justice: A Unified Perspective

The text delves into the relationship between goodness and justice, asserting that they can coexist within the same being. God is presented as both long-suffering and welcoming to the penitent, demonstrating goodness, while also acting as a just judge who rewards or punishes according to one's 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).

Conclusion

Ultimately, the text emphasizes the importance of free will in defining true goodness, the dangers of attributing evil to God, and the unified nature of divine goodness and justice. It encourages individuals to embrace their moral agency, give credit where it is due, and recognize the inherent value of choosing good over evil.