Understanding good is a central theme in the Bible, reflecting the nature and character of God, who is the ultimate standard of goodness. The concept of good is woven throughout Scripture, from the creation narrative in Genesis to the teachings of Jesus and the writings of the apostles. In the Bible, good is often contrasted with evil, and understanding what is good is essential for living a life that is pleasing to God.

Creation and the Nature of Good

The Bible begins with the account of creation, where God repeatedly declares His creation as "good." In Genesis 1:31 , it is written, "And God looked upon all that He had made, and indeed, it was very good." This declaration establishes that everything God created was inherently good, reflecting His perfect nature. Understanding good, therefore, starts with recognizing God's original design and intention for creation.

The Fall and the Distortion of Good

The entrance of sin into the world through Adam and Eve's disobedience (Genesis 3) distorted the understanding of good. Humanity's perception of good became tainted by sin, leading to a world where good and evil coexist. Romans 3:12 states, "All have turned away; they have together become worthless; there is no one who does good, not even one." This highlights the fallen state of humanity and the need for divine intervention to restore the understanding of true goodness.

The Law and the Revelation of Good

The Law given to Moses serves as a guide to understanding good. It reveals God's standards and expectations for His people. In Deuteronomy 6:18 , the Israelites are instructed, "Do what is right and good in the sight of the LORD, so that it may go well with you." The Law provides a framework for discerning good from evil and living in a way that honors God.

Jesus Christ: The Embodiment of Good

Jesus Christ is the ultimate revelation of good. His life and teachings exemplify perfect goodness. In Mark 10:18 , Jesus Himself says, "Why do you call Me good? No one is good except God alone." This statement underscores that true goodness is found in God, and Jesus, being God incarnate, is the perfect model of good. His sacrificial love and obedience to the Father demonstrate the highest form of goodness.

The Role of the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in helping believers understand and live out what is good. Galatians 5:22-23 lists the fruit of the Spirit, which includes goodness: "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control." The Spirit empowers believers to reflect God's goodness in their lives and to discern what is good in a world marred by sin.

The Call to Discernment

Believers are called to discern and pursue what is good. Romans 12:2 exhorts, "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God." This transformation involves a continual renewal of the mind, aligning one's thoughts and actions with God's will.

Living Out Goodness

Understanding good is not merely an intellectual exercise but a call to action. Micah 6:8 summarizes this call: "He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?" Believers are to embody goodness in their relationships, actions, and decisions, reflecting the character of God to the world.

Eternal Perspective

Finally, understanding good involves an eternal perspective. Revelation 21:4 promises a future where God will "wipe away every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the former things have passed away." In the new creation, the fullness of God's goodness will be realized, and believers will dwell in perfect harmony with Him forever.