The Nature of True Goodness: Choice vs. Necessity
The pursuit of goodness is a fundamental aspect of human existence. But what truly defines a good act or a good person? Is it simply performing actions that are deemed virtuous, or does the motivation and freedom behind those actions play a crucial role? Examining the concept of free will sheds light on the distinction between being "made good" and being "really good."
Free Will and Genuine Goodness
The text explores the idea that true goodness stems from free will and personal choice. It posits that someone "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 highlights the importance of autonomy in moral action.
The Problem with Compelled Goodness
If individuals are forced to act in a certain way, even if that way is considered "good," their actions lack genuine moral worth. The absence of choice negates the possibility of true virtue. Imagine a scenario where someone is programmed to always tell the truth. While their words would always be factual, their actions wouldn't necessarily be considered morally superior, as they have no capacity to lie, even if they wanted to. This lack of internal struggle and choice diminishes the value of their truthfulness.
God's Design: Friendship, Hostility, and Occasions
The text suggests that God has designed a world where "friendship or hostility should be in each man by occasions." (Source: Document: 1739759105915-3cgekr-anf08.txt) This implies that life presents us with opportunities to choose between good and evil, allowing us to exercise our free will and develop our moral character.
The Danger of Blasphemy
The text strongly cautions against attributing all our thoughts to God, stating, "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 illustrates the crucial role of individual responsibility. If God were the direct cause of all our actions, both good and bad, it would absolve us of any moral accountability.
The Interplay of Goodness and Justice
The document touches on the relationship between goodness and justice, suggesting that God is both. 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 implies a balance between mercy and fairness in the divine nature.
Long-suffering and Judgement
God's long-suffering provides opportunities for individuals to repent and choose a better path. However, justice demands that actions have consequences, and ultimately, individuals will be judged according to their deeds. This balance highlights the importance of both grace and accountability in the moral universe.
Conclusion
The concept of free will is essential to understanding true goodness. Actions performed out of genuine choice and internal motivation hold greater moral value than those compelled by necessity. God's design allows for the exercise of free will, presenting individuals with opportunities to choose between good and evil, ultimately shaping their moral character and determining their just reward.