Article May 6, 1944 Issue

Purpose and Motive

JOHN SIDNEY BRAITHWAITE

There is a shade of difference between the meaning of these two words, the study of which will repay the time and attention expended on it. Purpose is the thing intended; motive is the reason for the intention. The story of David and Goliath from the first book of Samuel will serve very well as an illustration. When David sallies forth to meet Goliath, his declared purpose is to destroy the giant, his motive is the vindication of God's protecting care for His people.

Purpose: "This day...I will smite thee, and take thine head from thee; and I will give the carcases of the host of the Philistines this day unto the fowls of the air, and to the wild beasts of the earth."

Motive: "Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom thou hast defied.... That all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel."

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