The Nature of True Goodness: Free Will and Divine Honor
This exploration delves into the concepts of free will, divine honor, and the relationship between goodness and justice, drawing from historical perspectives on these theological themes. It examines the idea that true goodness stems from choice, and considers the implications for how we understand God's interaction with humanity.
Free Will and the Essence of Goodness
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 through necessity.
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 passage suggests that genuine virtue arises from the ability to choose between good and evil. Without this freedom, actions lack moral significance, as they are not the result of personal conviction or conscious decision. God allows for this freedom, even with its inherent risks, so that true friendship or hostility towards the divine can be established.
The Rejection of Determinism
The text strongly rejects the notion that God dictates every thought and action. It argues that such a deterministic view leads to the blasphemous conclusion that God is the cause of immoral behaviors.
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 rejection of determinism underscores the importance of individual responsibility and accountability. It suggests that humans are not merely puppets of divine will, but active agents in their own moral development.
Divine Honor and Gratitude
The text also addresses the concept of divine honor and the appropriate response of gratitude. It argues that even if God does not explicitly demand honor, humans should naturally offer it out of recognition for the good received.
And do not say that God does not claim any honour; for if He Himself claims nothing, you 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 highlights the importance of recognizing and appreciating the source of goodness. Gratitude becomes a natural outflow of acknowledging the benefits bestowed upon individuals, fostering a deeper connection with the divine.
The Interplay of Goodness and Justice
The text explores the relationship between God's goodness and justice. It posits that God is both good and just, demonstrating goodness through long-suffering and welcoming the penitent, and justice through judging individuals according to their 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)
This perspective harmonizes seemingly contradictory attributes of the divine. God's goodness is expressed through mercy and patience, while His justice ensures fairness and accountability. These qualities work in tandem, reflecting a balanced and comprehensive divine nature.
Conclusion
The ideas presented offer a nuanced perspective on free will, divine honor, and the nature of goodness and justice. By emphasizing the importance of choice in defining true virtue and rejecting deterministic views, the text encourages personal responsibility and a deeper understanding of the divine-human relationship. Ultimately, it calls for a grateful recognition of the good received and an appreciation for the balanced nature of God's goodness and justice.