Why does God Allow Evil to Exit ? Biblical explanation

 

Why does God Allow Evil to Exit ?

Introduction

The problem of evil is one of the most enduring and perplexing issues in philosophy and theology. It raises profound questions about the nature of God, human suffering, and the existence of evil in the world. Why would an omnipotent, omniscient, and benevolent God permit the presence of evil and suffering in the world? This question, known as the problem of evil, has challenged believers and skeptics alike for centuries. In this article, we will explore various perspectives and explanations offered within Christian theology, referencing the Bible to provide a comprehensive understanding of why God allows evil to exist.

 

Understanding Evil

To begin addressing the question of why God allows evil, it is crucial to define what is meant by "evil." Evil can be broadly categorized into two types: moral evil and natural evil.

Moral Evil: This refers to the evil actions committed by human beings, such as murder, theft, and deceit. Moral evil is a result of human free will and the choices individuals make.

Natural Evil: This refers to suffering caused by natural events, such as earthquakes, hurricanes, and diseases. These are not the result of human actions but occur as part of the natural order of the world.

 

Free Will and the Nature of Love

One of the most significant explanations for the existence of evil is the concept of free will. According to Christian theology, God created humans with the capacity for free will, which allows individuals to make their own choices. This liberty is crucial for authentic affection and ethical accountability.

Biblical References

Genesis 2:16-17: The LORD God gave a command to the man, stating, "You may eat freely from every tree in the garden, except for the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. If you eat from this tree, you will surely die on that day."

In this passage, God gives Adam and Eve the freedom to choose, including the possibility of choosing wrongly. This freedom is a cornerstone of human existence and moral responsibility.

Deuteronomy 30:19: "I call heaven and earth to witness against you today, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse. Select life, so that you and your descendants may thrive. Here, God presents the Israelites with a choice, emphasizing the importance of free will in the relationship between God and humanity.

 

The Role of Free Will

Free will is essential for love to be genuine. A world where beings are programmed to do only good would be a world devoid of genuine relationships and moral growth. By granting humans free will, God allows for the possibility of love, moral development, and meaningful relationships. However, this also opens the door to the possibility of evil.

 

The Fall and Human Sinfulness

Christian theology teaches that evil entered the world through the Fall, the event in which Adam and Eve disobeyed God and ate from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. This act of disobedience brought sin and its consequences into the world, affecting all of creation.

Biblical References

Genesis 3:17-19: Then God said to Adam, "Since you listened to your wife and ate from the tree I commanded you not to eat from, the ground is cursed because of you. You will toil for your food all your life. The earth will produce thorns and thistles for you, and you will eat the plants of the field. By the sweat of your brow, you will eat your bread until you return to the ground, for from it you were taken; you are dust, and to dust you shall return."

This passage highlights the consequences of the Fall, including the introduction of suffering and toil into human life.

Romans 5:12: "Consequently, through a single individual, sin made its way into the world, bringing death as a result of sin, and in this manner, death extended to all people, for everyone has sinned."

Paul explains that sin and death entered the world through Adam's disobedience, affecting all humanity.

 

The Impact of the Fall

The Fall not only introduced moral evil (sin) but also disrupted the natural order, leading to natural evil (suffering and death). The brokenness of the world is a result of human sin, and this brokenness manifests in various forms of suffering and evil.

 God's Sovereignty and Human Suffering

Despite the presence of evil and suffering, the Bible affirms God's sovereignty and ultimate control over the world. God's ways and purposes are often beyond human understanding, and suffering can have a role in God's greater plan.

Biblical References

Isaiah 55:8-9: "'For My thoughts are not like your thoughts, and your ways are not like My ways,' declares the LORD. 'Just as the heavens tower above the earth, so My ways surpass your ways, and My thoughts are beyond your thoughts.'"

This passage reminds us that God's understanding and purposes are beyond human comprehension.

Romans 8:28: "Everything aligns for the benefit of those who love God and are called to fulfill His purpose."

Paul assures believers that God can bring good out of all circumstances, even those involving suffering and evil.

 

The Role of Suffering

Suffering can serve various purposes in God's plan:

Character Development: Suffering can lead to personal growth and the development of virtues such as patience, perseverance, and empathy.

James 1:2-4:"Dear brothers and sisters, consider it a source of pure joy whenever you encounter different challenges. Understand that these tests of your faith build perseverance. Let this perseverance finish its work so that you may become mature and whole, not lacking in anything."

Dependence on God: Suffering can draw individuals closer to God, fostering a deeper reliance on Him.

2 Corinthians 12:9-10: "He told me, 'My grace is all you need, for my power is strongest when you are weak.' Because of this, I am happy to brag about my weaknesses, so that the strength of Christ can dwell within me. Thus, I find joy in my hardships, insults, needs, persecutions, and difficulties for Christ's sake. For it is when I am weak that I am truly strong."

 Greater Good: God can bring about a greater good through suffering, which may not be immediately apparent.

Genesis 50:20: "You intended harm towards me, but God used it for a greater purpose, transforming it into a blessing to achieve what we see today: the salvation of countless lives."

 

The Ultimate Defeat of Evil

Christian eschatology promises the ultimate defeat of evil and the restoration of creation. The presence of evil and suffering is temporary, and God will eventually bring about a new heaven and a new earth where righteousness dwells.

Biblical References

Revelation 21:4:"God will remove every tear from their eyes; death, mourning, and weeping will be no more. Pain will be eliminated, as the old order of things has disappeared."

This vision of the future assures believers that suffering and evil will be eradicated.

1 Corinthians 15:24-26: "At the appointed time, He will hand over the kingdom to God the Father, concluding every form of rule, authority, and power. His reign will persist until He has subdued every adversary. Ultimately, death itself will be the final foe to be vanquished."

Paul speaks of the final victory of Christ over all forms of evil and death.

 

The Mystery of Evil and Trust in God

While many explanations can be offered for the existence of evil, there remains a degree of mystery that humans may never fully understand. The Bible calls for trust in God's wisdom and goodness, even in the face of suffering and evil.

Biblical References

Job 42:2-3: "I am aware of Your boundless capabilities and that nothing You intend can be kept from You. You inquired, 'Who is it that obscures wisdom without grasping its essence?' Hence, I have spoken of matters beyond my comprehension—wonders far too great for me to fathom."

Job acknowledges God's sovereignty and the limits of human understanding.

Proverbs 3:5-6: "Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths."This passage encourages believers to trust in God's guidance and wisdom.

 

Conclusion

The existence of evil is a profound challenge that touches on the nature of God, human freedom, and the purpose of suffering. Christian theology provides several explanations, emphasizing the importance of free will, the consequences of the Fall, the role of suffering in personal and spiritual growth, and the ultimate defeat of evil. While some aspects of the problem of evil remain mysterious, the Bible calls for trust in God's wisdom and sovereignty, assuring believers that God is ultimately working for good and will bring about a future where evil is no more.