The question of why God allows evil and suffering is one of the most challenging in theology. This issue, often called “the problem of evil,” addresses how a good, all-powerful God can permit suffering and wrongdoing. Here is a thoughtful response that includes theological perspectives, scholarly insights, and biblical references.
1. Free Will and the Nature of Love
A significant Christian perspective is that God created humans with free will, the ability to choose between good and evil, as a reflection of His love. True love requires freedom; without it, human actions would be mere automation. This freedom makes moral evil possible, as humans can choose actions that harm others. However, free will is necessary for genuine relationships with God and each other.
Biblical Support: In Genesis 1:27, humans are created in God’s image, with autonomy and the ability to make moral choices. When Adam and Eve choose to disobey God (Genesis 3), suffering enters the world as a consequence of moral choices, not God’s intention.
Scholar Insight: Philosopher Alvin Plantinga argues that free will is a gift that, while allowing for the possibility of evil, also enables love, morality, and meaningful relationships, making a world with free will morally preferable to a world without it.
2. A Fallen World and the Reality of Natural Suffering
Christians believe that humanity’s sin has affected not just individuals but all of creation, leading to a world marred by both moral and natural suffering (e.g., disasters, diseases). Paul writes, “For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until now” (Romans 8:22). This understanding presents suffering as part of a fallen world that awaits future redemption and restoration.
Theological Insight: Theologians like John Hick argue that natural suffering serves as a context for human growth. He presents the concept of the world as a “vale of soul-making,” where suffering provides an opportunity for spiritual and moral development.
3. God’s Greater Plan: Suffering and Redemption
While suffering is often incomprehensible, Christians believe that God works through it for a greater purpose, often drawing people closer to Him and developing virtues such as empathy, patience, and resilience. James 1:2-4 encourages believers to “count it all joy” when facing trials because such experiences produce perseverance and maturity in faith.
Biblical Example: The story of Joseph in Genesis 50:20 illustrates how God can use suffering for a greater purpose. After enduring betrayal, slavery, and imprisonment, Joseph tells his brothers, “You meant evil against me, but God meant it for good.”
4. The Role of Jesus’ Suffering
Christianity teaches that God is not indifferent to human suffering; He entered into it through Jesus Christ. The suffering and death of Jesus provide a unique perspective on God’s response to evil. Jesus’ sacrifice shows that God understands and shares in human pain, offering redemption and hope beyond suffering.
Biblical Support: Hebrews 4:15 states that Jesus sympathizes with human weaknesses because He endured suffering Himself. His resurrection offers the ultimate hope of conquering evil and death.
5. Future Hope: A World Restored
The Christian faith looks forward to a future where God will eradicate all evil and suffering. Revelation 21:4 promises, “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more.” This hope assures believers that suffering is temporary and that God’s justice will ultimately prevail.
Apologetic Perspective: Apologists argue that the temporary existence of suffering does not negate God’s goodness or power, as He has promised a future restoration. C.S. Lewis describes earthly suffering as a reminder that humanity was made for something greater—a redeemed and restored relationship with God.
Conclusion
In summary, Christians believe that God allows suffering because it is part of a world with free will and the opportunity for growth. Suffering, while often painful and difficult to understand, can deepen faith, foster empathy, and bring people closer to God. Moreover, Christianity offers the unique hope of a future without suffering, where God will bring ultimate justice and restoration.