As believers, we know that evil is in the world. Genesis 3 tells us this. God has graciously given us a glimpse into why our world is in such a mess.
Yet, we are still perplexed.
For me, sometimes I question why God lets evil happen. I know God is good, but I do wonder why. I am not alone in my thoughts on this subject.
Thankfully, people much smarter than I have thought through this question of evil and its existence. It’s called theodicy. An attempt to explain why there is evil in a world made by a good God.
First, we should consider what constitutes evil and its origins.
I like the quote by Augustine of Hippo, “What is that which we call evil but the absence of good?”
Evil is the corruption of good. The opposite of good.
We often see evil in two forms: natural evil and human evil. Phenomena like disease, tornadoes, earthquakes, floods, or deformity are natural disasters. Human evil encompasses actions by humanity, such as stealing, lying, killing, or cheating.
When we place evil in these categories, we can move into some reasons why God allows evil and suffering. I am not promising a tell-all to these questions, but I hope to provide insight from my readings.
What are some reasons God allows evil and suffering?
1. The Fall
2. Free Will
3. For a greater good
4. Builds Character
5. Reveals the Attributes of God
6. We don’t know
Over the next couple of weeks, we will examine the reasons why God might allow evil and suffering in the world.
Let’s not forget that, as believers, there is something better beyond this evil and sinful world we inhabit. Christ came and defeated sin, evil, and death. His death on the cross affords us hope.
Hope for better days and a bright future in the presence of the Lord!
References
A Visual Guide to Biblical Apologetics by Joseph M. Holden and Sarah R. Enterline
Why Does God Allow Evil? By Clay Jones
Without a Doubt Answering the 20 Toughest Faith Questions by Kenneth Samples
Christian Apologetics by Douglas Groothuis
