Biblical Answer

The Question of Evil: A Biblical Perspective

The Nature of God and Evil

The question of why bad things happen to good people has puzzled many. However, from a biblical perspective, this question is not necessarily a puzzle. God is not limited by our finite understanding of good and evil. He is the Creator, and as such, He has the authority to govern His creation as He sees fit. God's plans are not always obvious to us, but we can trust that He is working all things together for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28). The Bible teaches that God is love, and He made us in His image to love and care for one another (Genesis 1:26-27; Isaiah 43:7; Ephesians 2:10).

The Problem of Evil: A Misunderstanding

The problem of evil is often seen as a contradiction to God's goodness. However, this misunderstanding arises from a flawed assumption that God's goodness is limited to human standards of good and evil. The Bible teaches that God's goodness is rooted in His eternal character, and His plans are not always obvious to us. God's sovereignty over creation means that He has the authority to govern His creation as He sees fit, even if it means allowing evil to exist. This does not mean that God is the author of evil, but rather that He is working all things together for the good of those who love Him.

The Purpose of Evil: A Biblical Perspective

The Bible teaches that evil exists to bring about a greater good. In the book of Job, Satan's actions are used by God to bring about a greater good in Job's life. Similarly, in the story of Joseph, God's sovereignty over creation is seen in the midst of evil and suffering. Joseph's brothers' evil actions were used by God to bring about a greater good in Joseph's life and the lives of his family. This perspective on evil is not meant to diminish the suffering that occurs, but rather to provide hope and comfort in the midst of it. We can trust that God is working all things together for the good of those who love Him, even in the midst of evil and suffering. (Romans 8:28)