Natural Instincts That Resemble Virtue—but Are Not True Holiness | Jonathan Edwards

Deep Dive into The Nature of True Virtue by Jonathan Edwards - Of Particular Instincts of Nature, Which in Some Respects Resemble VirtueJonathan Edwards explores various natural human dispositions and instincts that exist for the preservation and comfortable subsistence of mankind. He specifically examines instincts that resemble benevolence to demonstrate that they do not constitute true virtue. True virtue, according to Edwards, consists of general benevolence and a union of heart to universal existence and God. In contrast, natural instincts are limited in their scope and do not arise from this universal principle.Edwards identifies three specific natural instincts that mimic virtue: natural affection, romantic love, and pity. The first is natural affection, such as the love parents have for their children. While this arises from a law of nature, it is fundamentally tied to self-love and is limited to a private system rather than being subordinate to general existence. Therefore, it cannot be considered true virtue.The second instinct is the mutual affection between the sexes. Although this disposition involves mutual benevolence independent of mere sensitive desires, it is still a limited instinct implanted by the Creator primarily for the continuation of the human race. Because it is inherently restricted to specific individuals, it lacks the universal nature required for true virtue.The third instinct is natural pity towards those in extreme distress. Edwards argues that if pity were true benevolence, it would universally compel individuals to desire the complete happiness of others. However, people can experience pity even while feeling indifferent to another person's overall joy and prosperity. Furthermore, pity can actually coexist with malevolence, as a person might pity an enemy whose suffering exceeds the level of their ill will. God implanted this instinct to provide merciful relief in a sinful world, but like the other instincts, it does not arise from true virtue.Reformed Theologian GPT: https://chat.openai.com/g/g-XXwzX1gnv-reformed-theologianYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@ReformedExplainerSpotify Music: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1t5dz4vEgvHqUknYQfwpRI?si=e-tDRFR2Qf6By1sAcMdkdwhttps://buymeacoffee.com/edi2730