The Goodness of God Flashcards
What are the two views on what makes an action good?
1- Either cos God commands it (but means he is like a divine dictator)
2- God commands what is good?
NAME all main aspects regarding Christian views on the goodness of God
Believe God’s commands are good
Bible:
- Shown thru Jesus - Golden rule
- Ten commandments tell us whats right and wrong
- Humans reacting to God’s goodness - Abraham sacrificing son Isaac
God’s compassion: he is personal and involved in the world: miracles. He also answers prayers
What are the characteristics of the goodness of the Christian god?
Believe God is personal - Certain qualities and characteristics e.g. he is omnipotent and omniscient. He cares for Humans and has a relationship with humans and the world.
How does Jesus show God’s goodness?
In new testament God’s goodness shown through Jesus - Shows his love and care for humanity for example Jesus’ golden rule “Treat others as you would like to be treated”.
How is God compassionate and how does this make him good
God is good as he shows compassion when responding to prayers - he cares for people and is affected by the way people respond to him. He shows much love for his people. His goodness concerns individuals.
What is an example of God setting standards of what is right and wrong?
The ten commandments - God is good as he gives us guidance and laws. “Do not murder” shows he sets what is morally right and wrong.
What does Bible show about God’s goodness?
God is good and so are his actions. His goodness is shown through his activity in the world today e.g. miracles.
Using Bible as example: how do humans react to Gods goodness?
We react by obeying his commands. God knows best. Abraham was about to sacrifice his son Isaac due to his faith inn the goodness of God. People respond to his goodness with faith.
What is the difference between Plato’s form of the Good and the goodness of God in the Bible/christianity?
Plato’s form of good is transcendent and impersonal and separate from the world and is a source for the other forms. Whereas God isnt just a source of goodness who decides what is right and wrong. He acts in morally good ways in the world e.g. creation and miracles
Name/not explain 3 problems with God’s goodness
1) Evil and suffering
2) There is no proof God actually does intervene with the world
3) If God is unchanging and eternal then he can’t aid people and help them as he can’t change to help them
