Evil and God’s World: A Special Problem
Chapter Objectives
Upon completion of this chapter, you should be able to do the following:
1. Define and understand the nature of the problem of evil.
2. Identify several proposed solutions to the problem.
3. Explain the theological themes that bear upon this problem and contribute to alleviating it.
4. Strengthen the faith of the believer and enable him or her to offer response to critics of the Christian faith.
Chapter Summary
Probably the most difficult intellectual challenge to the Christian faith is the problem of how there can be evil in the world. If God is all-powerful and all-loving, how can evil be present in the world? Although the problem will never be fully resolved within this earthly life, there are biblical teachings that help alleviate it.
Study Questions
• Why is it difficult to explain the problem of evil?
• What are three solutions to the problem of evil, and what is the response to these solutions?
• How does human freedom affect the problem of evil?
• How would you define the terms “good” and “evil”?
• How do general and specific sins affect evil?
Outline
The Nature of the Problem
Types of Solutions
Finitism: Rejection of Omnipotence
Modification of the Concept of God’s Goodness
Denial of Evil
Themes for Dealing with the Problem of Evil
Evil as a Necessary Accompaniment of the Creation of Humanity
A Reevaluation of What Constitutes Good and Evil
Evil in General as the Result of Sin in General
Specific Evil as the Result of Specific Sins
God as the Victim of Evil
The Life Hereafter