Biblical Answer

The Problem of Evil and Suffering

The question of why bad things happen to good people is a complex and age-old conundrum that has puzzled many people, including those who believe in God. The Bible acknowledges the presence of evil and suffering in the world, and it even describes the ultimate destiny of the wicked as destruction (Psalm 73:23-26). However, the Bible also affirms that God is good and that He loves us (1 John 4:8). This apparent contradiction has led many to question the nature of God and His relationship to the world.

The Sovereignty of God

One possible explanation for why bad things happen to good people is that God is sovereign over all creation. As the Creator, God has the right to exercise authority over the world and its inhabitants (Romans 9:20-21). This includes the power to permit evil and suffering, even if it seems unjust or unfair to us. However, this does not mean that God is the author of evil or that He delights in the suffering of His people. Rather, God's sovereignty is a manifestation of His goodness and wisdom, even in the midst of suffering and evil.

The Problem of Human Sin

Another factor that contributes to the problem of evil and suffering is human sin. The Bible teaches that sin entered the world through Adam and Eve's rebellion against God (Genesis 3:6-7). As a result, the ground was cursed, and suffering and evil became a part of the world (Genesis 3:17-19). This means that bad things happen to good people not because God is cruel or capricious, but because of the consequences of human sin. While this does not excuse evil or suffering, it does provide a biblical explanation for why they exist. Ultimately, the problem of evil and suffering points to the need for a Savior who can redeem us from our sin and bring us into a relationship with God.