Solutions to the Problem of Evil and Suffering

Question 1

What is the Biblical response?

Answer 1

1. Job was a pious man and Satan argued that he only worshipped God because he had a good life. God took away that life. Job demanded that he speak to God directly. Job came face to face with God’s holiness and realised that humans cannot understand God’s reasoning.
2. Psalms says that suffering and joy go hand in hand and that suffering is part of life

Question 2

What are SOWAAs to support the biblical response?

Answer 2

1. Job: “he is mighty in understanding” and “does not despise any”
2. Psalms: “good to be afflicted so that I might learn”

Question 3

What are theoretical responses to the problem of evil?

Answer 3

1. Free will response: Evil is caused by humans abusing free will not by God.
2. Vale of soul making: God created this world as a place for people to become good and develop their souls. Show omnibenevolence by heaven

Question 4

What are the practical response to the problem of evil?

Answer 4

1. Jesus healed the sick, fed the hungry and challenged those who were evil
2. Praying for those who suffer (intercessionary prayers)
3. Give to charity (Christian Aid and CAFOD)