The Existence of God - Beliefs and views about God being God & Human Suffering

Question 1

Through creation, how is God good?

Answer 1

• In Genesis all creation is described as good

- God provided all that is needed to sustain the world and its inhabitants.

Question 2

How does God show his goodness through law?

Answer 2

• He does not force goodness upon anyone (free-will)
• But he sets out rules in the Bible for moral and good ways for Christians to live their lives.
• Because God is good his rules are good.

Question 3

How did God show his goodness through Jesus?

Answer 3

• Offered humans forgiveness through salvation
• Sent Jesus to die for all human sin
• If Christians repent then God will forgive them and allow them to spend eternity in heaven with him

Question 4

What did St Augustine say about evil and suffering?

Answer 4

• Evil is responsible for humans making the wrong choices.
• This is based on Adam and Eve eating the fruit
• People question why God created humanity if he knew they were going to be disobedient?

Question 5

What did Iranaeus suggest about evil and suffering?

Answer 5

• Man was not created perfect but immature

- They need to grow and develop to God’s planned perfection.

Question 6

What are other views about evil and suffering?

Answer 6

• Some Christians say that evil is necessary to distinguish the difference between good and bad and to teach between good and bad.
• Others think it is a test for believers faith and a punishment for the wicked.

Question 7

In the Bible, what example is there showing evil is a test for mankind?

Answer 7

• Book of Job
• Devil is allowed to bring evil to Job to see if he will stay faithful or not.
• He did and God rewarded him.