Why True Virtue Begins with Supreme Love to God | Jonathan Edwards

Deep Dive into The Nature of True Virtue by Jonathan Edwards - Showing wherein the Essence of True Virtue ConsistsJonathan Edwards defines true virtue not merely as any type of beauty, but specifically as a moral beauty of the mind and heart that warrants praise or blame. He distinguishes between particular beauty, which is pleasing only within a limited context, and general beauty, which remains beautiful when viewed comprehensively in relation to the universe. Accordingly, he argues that true virtue most essentially consists in benevolence to being in general. This means it is a fundamental disposition of good will and a union of the heart toward the universal system of existence.While true virtue involves a universal benevolence, this does not preclude love for specific individuals. Rather, any genuine love for particular beings must stem from an overarching benevolent disposition toward all existence, rather than a contracted, private affection that might oppose the greater whole. Edwards divides love into the love of benevolence, which desires the well-being of another, and the love of complacence, which delights in another's existing beauty. He insists that true virtue must primarily consist in the love of benevolence toward being, simply considered, because arguing that virtue begins with a love of existing beauty or gratitude creates a logical circle where virtue is both the cause and effect of itself.The primary object of this virtuous benevolence is existence itself, seeking the highest good of all. Furthermore, there is a secondary object of virtuous love: benevolent beings themselves. When a virtuous person encounters another who possesses general benevolence, they are drawn to them because they share the same love for universal existence. Ultimately, true moral and spiritual beauty lies in this shared benevolence, and to truly appreciate it in others, one must possess the same benevolent temper themselves.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