Evil and Suffering

• Moral evil and suffering

  – evil and suffering caused by human beings, eg murder, theft
• Natural evil and suffering

  evil and suffering caused by nature, eg earthquakes, tsunamis
• Why is the existence of evil and suffering considered a problem for Christians?

  It raises questions about God's nature and his ability to prevent suffering.
• According to Genesis, how did God view the world after creation?

  God saw that it was "very good."
• What is the inconsistent triad in relation to the problem of evil?

  It suggests that if God is omnipotent and omnibenevolent, suffering should not exist.
• What implications does the existence of suffering have on the belief in God's love and power?

  It raises doubts about whether God truly loves us or is all-powerful.
• What questions arise from the existence of natural disasters like earthquakes and famines for Christians?


  They question why a good and powerful God would allow such events to occur.
• What does the problem of evil challenge about the existence of God?

  It challenges the belief that God is both all-loving and all-powerful.
• What is the term used for an attempt to explain the problem of evil in Christian theology?

  Theodicy
• Why do many Christians believe that evil and suffering are caused by people?

  Because God created humans with free will to choose between right and wrong
• What are the three answers to the problem of evil and suffering explored in the Book of Job?

  1. Suffering is a test
  2. Suffering is a punishment for sin
  3. Suffering is part of God’s plan, which is beyond human understanding
• How do some Christians find comfort in the face of suffering according to Revelation?

  By remembering that suffering is temporary and they will go to heaven where there will be no more pain
• What did John Hick suggest about human beings and their development in relation to suffering?

  He suggested that humans were created in the image of God and must grow into the likeness of God through suffering
• What does Hick mean by describing the world as a 'vale of soul making'?

  • A place where individuals can develop and improve their characters
  • Suffering helps people learn, grow, and develop
  • Everyone will eventually be transformed into the likeness of God
• What do Christians believe about Jesus in relation to suffering?

  They believe that Jesus suffered and died to save humans and allow them to have eternal life
• How do Christians view God's presence in relation to human suffering?

  They believe that God knows what it is like to suffer and will be with people in their suffering
• What is more important for many Christians regarding evil and suffering?

  It is more important to try to do something about it rather than worry about its origins
• How did Jesus instruct his followers to respond to those who are suffering?

  • Help those who are suffering
  • Examples include:
  • Praying for those in need
  • Giving practical help
  • Visiting the sick and elderly
  • Organizing hostels for the homeless