LessonsDivine Decree and Destiny: Will, Approval and ChoiceQuiz

An action raises several distinct questions:
Did it occur?—a question of existence and creation.
Was it commanded?—a question of revealed obligation.
Is it approved by God?—a question of love or pleasure.

Giving charity is praiseworthy, yet a particular person may choose not to give it; that charitable act then does not occur. Conversely, oppression may occur while remaining prohibited and condemned.

Distinguishing the fact of occurrence from religious approval blocks the mistaken inference that whatever God brings into existence must also be morally pleasing to Him.

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Approval, love and religious command

Divine Decree and Destiny: Will, Approval and Choice

An action raises several distinct questions:
Did it occur?—a question of existence and creation.
Was it commanded?—a question of revealed obligation.
Is it approved by God?—a question of love or pleasure.

Giving charity is praiseworthy, yet a particular person may choose not to give it; that charitable act then does not occur. Conversely, oppression may occur while remaining prohibited and condemned.

Distinguishing the fact of occurrence from religious approval blocks the mistaken inference that whatever God brings into existence must also be morally pleasing to Him.