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Your Question:
Why does God let people suffer when they're innocent?
Answer:
The question of why God lets people suffer when they're innocent is a complex one. As a pastor, I've had to grapple with this issue many times. One possible answer is that God allows suffering for the benefit of others. For example, the suffering of Christ on the cross was for the benefit of humanity. Similarly, the suffering of others may be for the benefit of those who are watching, or for the benefit of the person themselves, even if they don't realize it. Another possible answer is that God knows that we would not accept the suffering if we knew the facts. In other words, if we knew the full extent of the suffering and the reasons behind it, we would be willing to accept it. This is not to say that we would be eager to suffer, but rather that we would be willing to accept it as part of our calling as Christians. Ultimately, the question of why God lets people suffer when they're innocent is one that may not have a complete answer. However, as Christians, we can take comfort in the fact that God is always fair and just. He does not condemn the innocent and the ignorant. And even when we do suffer, we can take comfort in the fact that we are not alone, and that Christ has suffered for us and given us an example to follow. As Peter writes, "Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps" (1 Peter 2:21). This can give us the strength and courage to endure suffering, even when it seems pointless or unnecessary.
Sources:
warranted christian belief
alvin plantinga
reformed doctrine salvation
loraine boettner
basic christianity
john stott
systematic theology
wayne grudem
christian theology
millard erickson
what does the bible really teach about homosexuality
kevin deyoung
god
j i packer knowing
on guard
william lane craig
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