The problem of evil an suffering Flashcards
Why the existence of evil and suffering is a
problem for Christians
P: It suggests God is not all powerful – EX: if he was then he would have been able to stop the suffering.
P: It suggests that God is not all loving – EX: if he was loving then he would have wanted to stop the suffering.
P: If God is not all loving or all powerful then he is not a God worth worshipping. EX: Christians will not want to worship or pray to a God who is cruel and weak.
Non-religious views on why evil exist
Natural evil exists because of the way humans
have treated the world.
Biblical responses to evil and suffering
Psalm 119 – King David
Chased by King Saul. He wrote the Psalms.
Psalm 119 teaches Christians that
Suffering is part of life
I can pray to God to get comfort in my suffering
I praise God for his help in times of trouble
2) Job
Tested by Satan. Lost his wealth, health and family.
All suffering is known to God.
He is in control of it all and will not let it get out of
hand.
Satan is on a leash!
3) Jesus
Mocked, beaten crucified.
The ultimate suffering was done to Jesus so that
humans could be right with God.
God allows suffering to help humans trust him.
Theoretical responses to evil and suffering
Free Will Defence
Humans were made by God and given freewill.
We have the choice and freedom in how we act.
Vale of Soul Making
However, we are not perfect although we do have the potential to become perfect.
Throughout our lives we can change from being imperfect to perfect
This is a choice we can make. When we suffer, we can choose to develop God-like qualities
Practical responses to evil and suffering
Prayer
Christians pray for those who are suffering
2) Charity work
Christians raise money, help out at church or in charity shops
Evaluating these responses, what are the biblical strengths and weanesses
BIBLICAL - strengths
Helps Christians understand God more clearly
Helps Christians believe that God acts for good in the world
BIBLICAL – weaknesses
God didn’t stop the suffering of people in the Bible.
It might make it harder to trust God when things aren’t going well
Evaluating these responses, theoretical strengths and weaknesses.
THEOERTICAL - strengths
Encourages Christians to use times of evil to make right choices
Explains where evil comes from – humans, not God
THEORETICAL – weaknesses
God created the universe so he IS responsible!
Not reasonable to expect people to respond well!
Evaluating these responses, practical
PRACTICAL
These are not a “solution” – but they can be
successful in easing suffering.
Suffering is a reality of life – Christians should
choose to respond practically
