The discussion centers on the idea of doing good for its own sake, emphasizing intrinsic moral development over external rewards. It delves into transforming children's understanding of morality from fear of judgment to seeing God as a loving figure. Engaging with doubts about God's character due to perceived violence in the Old Testament, the conversation explores deeper moral concerns. The relationship between justice, love, and divine wrath is examined, alongside the unique character of Jesus, shedding light on His perfect nature compared to other historical figures.
Moral development in children progresses from external motivations like rewards to intrinsic motivations based on a genuine love for doing good.
Understanding God's moral character in a loving context shifts the perception of morality from fear-based compliance to love-driven actions.
Deep dives
Moral Development and Virtue Ethics
Moral development in children is framed as a progression from external incentives like rewards and punishments to intrinsic motivations based on virtue. Initially, children learn to adhere to boundaries and rules, which serve as foundational guidelines for ethical behavior. As they consistently practice virtuous actions, these behaviors evolve into habitual actions that they begin to appreciate for their own sake. Ultimately, the aim is for children to develop a genuine love for doing good, aligning the understanding of morality with both virtue ethics and biblical teachings.
The Concept of Authority and Training
Children need to recognize that they are under authority, starting with parental guidance before transitioning to a broader understanding of authority in life. This recognition is critical in their moral development, as boundaries are essential for teaching them about right and wrong. Just as athletes develop muscle memory through repetitive practice, children must repeatedly practice virtuous actions until they become ingrained habits, fostering a sense of fulfillment. Establishing these boundaries through guidance allows children to internalize the reasons behind virtuous behaviors, moving beyond mere compliance to genuine moral development.
Different Perspectives on God and Moral Obligations
The discussion highlights a misunderstanding of the Christian view of morality as merely a system of rewards and punishments akin to a transactional relationship. Instead, true Christian morality is rooted in the understanding of God as a loving Father, where moral actions stem from love and commitment rather than fear of punishment. The narrative emphasizes that moral obligations in a relationship should arise from love, much like the vows exchanged in marriage, rather than a strict adherence to rules. Ultimately, the relationship with God after adoption in faith transforms how individuals perceive morality, shifting from obligations motivated by fear to actions driven by a genuine love for the good.
Questions about it being better to do good for goodness’ sake rather than to earn approval and avoid punishment and a good initial approach to take with someone who rejects God based on his “violent” and “oppressive” character in the Old Testament.
I want my children to do good for goodness’ sake. Doing it to earn my approval and avoid my punishment is the absolute worst outcome I can imagine, as is requiring them to relentlessly thank me for helping them find it—and I’m just a human!
What's a good initial approach to take with someone who rejects God based on his “violent” and “oppressive” character in the Old Testament, regardless of good arguments about his being objectively moral?
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