Solving the Problem of Evil: Christianity’s Unique Resolution

1. The Problem of Evil: Logical and Evidential Versions

The Problem of Evil (PoE) is typically presented in two ways:

• The Logical Problem of Evil (LPE): Claims that God and evil cannot coexist.
• The Evidential Problem of Evil (EPE): Argues that the existence of intense or widespread evil makes God's existence unlikely.

Both arguments fail when examined through the lens of biblical truth.

2. The Logical Problem of Evil: Free Will Necessitates Evil

Free Will Requires the Possibility of Evil

The LPE assumes a contradiction between God's omnipotence, goodness, and the existence of evil. This assumption misunderstands the nature of free will. True free will requires the ability to choose between good and evil. Without this freedom, moral responsibility and genuine love would be impossible. A world where humans could only choose good would be logically incoherent—akin to asking for a "square circle" or "dry water."

God’s Sovereignty and the Greater Good

Romans 8:28 reinforces this truth: “We know that all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” God uses all things, including evil, to accomplish good. Evil does not exist outside of His control but serves a purpose in His redemptive plan. The Logical Problem of Evil fails because free will logically necessitates the possibility of evil, and God’s sovereignty ensures evil is ultimately used for good.

3. The Evidential Problem of Evil: Suffering Serves a Purpose

Suffering is Not Purposeless

What appears as meaningless evil often serves essential roles in God’s plan:

• Character Formation: Trials and suffering refine individuals, producing perseverance, character, and hope (Romans 5:3-5; James 1:2-4).
• Dependence on God: Suffering reminds humans of their limitations and draws them closer to God (2 Corinthians 12:9).
• Eternal Perspective: From an eternal viewpoint, temporary suffering is outweighed by the glory to come (2 Corinthians 4:17).

Evil is Temporary

The Bible promises that evil and suffering are temporary (Revelation 21:4). God will ultimately wipe away every tear and restore all things. Evil exists as a temporary reality, not a permanent feature of creation, and it serves God’s purposes in bringing about the ultimate good.

4. The Fall: Explaining Moral and Natural Evil

Moral Evil: Human Sin

Moral evils, such as violence and oppression, result from humanity’s misuse of free will. Romans 5:12 explains: “Sin came into the world through one man, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men because all sinned.” These evils are the direct consequence of human sin.

Natural Evil: Creation’s Groaning

Natural evils—such as diseases and natural disasters—are the result of the Fall’s cosmic effects. Romans 8:20-22 explains: “For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of him who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to corruption.”

Redemption is Coming

Through Jesus Christ, both moral and natural evils are addressed. Christ’s death and resurrection provide forgiveness for sin, and His ultimate return promises the restoration of creation itself (Colossians 1:19-20; Revelation 21:1-5). The Fall explains the presence of evil, while God’s redemptive plan ensures its ultimate resolution.

5. The Atheist’s Incoherence: Evil Requires God

Objective Evil Requires an Objective Standard

Evil can only be understood as a deviation from an objective moral standard. Without God, such a standard does not exist. If morality is merely a product of evolution or cultural consensus, then concepts like “good” and “evil” are meaningless. Yet, atheists often appeal to objective moral truths when condemning evil, betraying the incoherence of their position.

Borrowing from Theism

When atheists decry acts of injustice or suffering, they borrow from the moral framework provided by theism. Without God, their moral outrage is groundless. As C.S. Lewis observed: “A man does not call a line crooked unless he has some idea of a straight line.” The very act of condemning evil affirms the existence of a moral lawgiver.

6. Christianity’s Unique Solution to Evil

The Cross: God’s Answer to Evil

The crucifixion of Jesus Christ—the greatest evil in history—was simultaneously the greatest act of redemption. Acts 2:23 affirms: “This Jesus, delivered up according to the definite plan and foreknowledge of God, you crucified and killed by the hands of lawless men.” Human evil, though real, served God’s ultimate purpose of salvation. The cross demonstrates God’s justice in dealing with sin and His mercy in offering forgiveness.

Eternal Restoration

Romans 8:28 and Revelation 21:4 assure believers that God will ultimately resolve all evil and suffering. Evil is temporary, subordinate to God’s purposes, and will be eradicated in the new creation. In this eternal perspective, evil serves to highlight God’s glory, justice, and mercy.

Conclusion: Christianity Resolves the Problem of Evil

The Problem of Evil does not disprove God. Instead, it underscores the necessity of God’s existence for concepts like good, evil, and justice to have meaning. Christianity uniquely explains:

1. The origin of evil (free will and the Fall).
2. The necessity of evil (for free will and God’s greater purposes).
3. The resolution of evil (through Christ and the promise of restoration).

Evil exists because free will necessitates its possibility, but God remains sovereign, using even evil to accomplish good. As Genesis 50:20 and Romans 8:28 affirm, evil is not the end of the story. It is a temporary feature of a broken world that God is redeeming. Far from disproving God, the existence of evil magnifies His justice, mercy, and redemptive power.