Satan's Favorite Question
Introduction
In this blog post, we will explore the age-old question of why God allows evil and suffering. This question has been a favorite of Satan, as it often poses a challenge to believers and can lead some to doubt their faith. We’ll look at both the hostile and genuine perspectives on this question, and provide insights that may help shed light on this complex issue.
Satan's Favorite Question
The question that Satan loves to ask is, "Why does a good God allow evil and suffering?" This question is often used to mock believers and challenge the very existence of God. While it is important to acknowledge that there may be legitimate reasons for asking this question, it is crucial to understand that there is no definitive answer to it in the Bible. Even in the case of Job, whom God recognized as a righteous man, God did not directly answer the question of why evil and suffering exist.
Addressing the Hostile Perspective
When confronted with the question of why God allows evil and suffering in a hostile manner, it is important to recognize that some people are not genuinely seeking answers but rather aiming to disprove Christianity. Engaging in a theological debate or presenting arguments such as Free Will may not be effective in such cases. Instead, consider responding with a thought-provoking question: "If you do not believe in the Christian God, then why hasn't what you believe in stopped evil and suffering?"
This approach challenges the notion that any other belief system or entity, be it science, the universe, or other religions, has a satisfactory answer to the problem of evil and suffering. By highlighting that no credible alternative exists, it prompts individuals to reconsider their hostility towards the Christian God.
Addressing the Genuine Perspective
On the other hand, there are individuals who ask the question of why God allows evil and suffering sincerely, often due to personal experiences of loss or tragedy. For these individuals, it may be more helpful to focus on the redemptive aspect of suffering. Instead of delving into theological concepts like Free Will, consider emphasizing the significance of Jesus' suffering on the cross.
Explain that God allowed His own son, Jesus, to experience evil and suffering. Jesus willingly chose to endure a brutal crucifixion as part of God's redemptive plan for humanity. By emphasizing this aspect, we can offer solace to those who are genuinely struggling with the existence of evil and suffering. It highlights that God understands and shares in our suffering, providing comfort and hope for those facing adversity.
Conclusion
The question of why God allows evil and suffering is a complex and challenging one. While there may not be a definitive answer that satisfies every individual, it is important to approach this question with empathy and understanding. By engaging in thoughtful dialogue and emphasizing the redemptive nature of suffering, we can provide insights that may help individuals navigate this difficult topic.
Remember, no belief system or entity can provide a better answer to the problem of evil and suffering than what is found in the Bible. As believers, we can find solace in the fact that God allowed His own son to suffer, demonstrating His understanding and presence amidst our trials.
www.curtkennedy.com