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Good people Quote by John Wesley

“Good people avoid sin because they love goodness, Wicked people avoid sin because they fear punishment.” quote by John Wesley
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““Good people avoid sin because they love goodness, Wicked people avoid sin because they fear punishment.””

John Wesley

About This Quote

Source Sermon: Sermons on Several Occasions, 1745

People avoid wrongdoing for different reasons: love of virtue or fear of penalty.

In simple terms: Goodness or fear drives behavior.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate love for goodness over fear.

Themes

morality motivation ethics

Mood

reflective thoughtful

Type

ethical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal decisions
  • legal compliance
  • parenting
  • education

Key Concepts

Virtue ethics deterrence

Questions to Reflect On

  • What motivates your ethical choices?
  • Can love for goodness replace fear?
A Different Perspective

Fear alone may not sustain long‑term virtue.

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