The Problem of Evil and Pain 1. An Introduction to the Problem of Evil and Pain
|
|
|
- Jasmine Morrison
- 5 years ago
- Views:
Transcription
1 The Problem of Evil and Pain 1. An Introduction to the Problem of Evil and Pain Leon Bonnat Job 1880
2 The Problem of Evil and Pain 1: Introduction to the Problem of Evil and Pain 2: The Explanation of St. Augustine: The Fall and Original Sin 3: The Explanation of Leibniz: The Best Possible World 4: The Explanation of St. Irenaeus: A World of Soulmaking 5: The Explanation of Process Theology 6: The Existential Problem of Evil and Redemptive Suffering 7: Summary and Conclusions: The Problem of Evil and Pain
3 Opening Prayer Eternal God, in whose perfect kingdom no sword is drawn but the sword of righteousness, no strength known but the strength of love: So mightily spread abroad your Spirit, that all peoples may be gathered under the banner of the Prince of Peace, as children of one Father; to whom be dominion and glory, now and forever. Amen
4 Leon Bonnat Job 1880 Introduction
5 John Lennox, Professor of Mathematics at Oxford University, Author and Christian Apologist, speaking at Harvard Medical School, Boston Excerpted from Veritas Forum Lecture
6 Introduction Epicurus ( BC): Is he willing to prevent evil, but not able? Then he is impotent. Is he able, but not willing? Then he is malevolent. Is he both able and willing? Whence then is evil?
7 Introduction Hans Kung:* Was God at Auschwitz? If God is God: all-powerful, all-knowing, allgood and loving, present everywhere, then of course God must have been at Auschwitz! But how could God have been at Auschwitz without preventing Auschwitz? * How could God have looked on when the gas streamed out and the cremation ovens were burning? * *Credo. The Apostles Creed Explained for Today, p. 89.
8 Introduction Theologian Eugene Borowitz( ) on the Holocaust: Any God who could permit the Holocaust, who could remain silent during it, who could hide His face while it dragged on, was not worth believing in. There might well be a limit to how much we could understand Him, but Auschwitz demanded an unreasonable suspension of understanding. In the face of such great evil, God, the good and the powerful, was too inexplicable, so men said, God is dead.
9 Introduction In Fyodor Dostoevsky s ( ) The Brothers Karamazov, Ivan Karamazov tells his brother Alyosha, a Russian Orthodox priest, the story of about a Russian general with over two thousand serfs and hundreds of hunting dogs. An 8 year old serf boy threw a stone that hurt the paw of the general s favorite hunting dog. The general ordered the boy to be taken away from his mother and shut up alone in a cell. In the morning, the terrified boy, shivering and naked, was summoned before the general. The general ordered the boy to run and then set his hunting dogs on him, who tear the boy to pieces before his mother s eyes.
10 Introduction Ivan asks his brother: Tell me yourself, I challenge you. Imagine that you are creating a fabric of human destiny with the object of making men happy in the end, giving them peace and rest at last, but that it was essential and inevitable to torture to death only one tiny creature that baby beating its breast with its fist, for instance and to found that edifice on its unavenged tears, would you consent to be the architect on those conditions? Tell me, and tell me the truth.
11 Introduction The presence of evil and suffering in the world is the most potent rational objection to the existence of a all-powerful, all-knowing, loving God. Han Kung: the rock of atheism. The presence of evil and suffering in the world is one of the great and life-long challenges to a life of faith.
12 The Definition of Evil Leon Bonnat Job 1880
13 The Definition of Evil We will adopt a common-sense definition of evil, and include under evil such things as: Physical pain Mental suffering The suffering of innocents Physical deformities Psychological abnormalities Disease Character defects Injustice Oppression and Persecution Natural Catastrophes
14 The Definition of Evil Two Kinds of Evil Two kinds of evil: 1. Moral Evil: evil caused by free human beings, such as: Murder Lying Stealing Greed Dishonesty
15 The Definition of Evil Two Kinds of Evil Two kinds of evil: 2. Natural Evil, such as: Hurricanes, floods, tornados, fires Famines Cancer and AIDS Birth defects and deformities Disabilities: blindness, deafness, insanity
16 The Definition of Evil John Hick: Moral evil is evil that we human beings originate: cruel, unjust, viscous, and perverse thoughts and deeds. Natural evil is the evil that originates independently of human actions: in disease bacilli, earthquakes, storms, droughts, tornados, etc.
17 The Problem of Evil in Philosophy Leon Bonnat Job 1880
18 The Problem of Evil The problem of evil, in the parlance of philosophy, refers to an argument from evil against the existence of a Godwho is: all-powerful, all-knowing, all-good.
19 The Problem of Evil Most basic form of the problem of evil (echoing Epicurus): (1) An all-powerful, all-good, all-knowing God exists. (2) Evil exists. Atheists have claimed that statements (1) and (2) are logically contradictory, or at least extremely unlikely to both be true. This is the problem of evil.
20 The Problem of Evil Three Versions of the Problem of Evil There are three versions of the problem of evil put forward by atheists. Version 1 (basic form): (1) An all-powerful, all-good, all-knowing God exists. (2) Evil exists. Statements (1) and (2) cannot be reconciled.
21 The Problem of Evil Three Versions of the Problem of Evil Version 2: (1) An all-powerful, all-good, all-knowing God exists. (2) Large amounts, extreme and horrendous kinds, and perplexing distributions of evil exist. Statements (1) and (2) cannot be reconciled.
22 The Problem of Evil Three Versions of the Problem of Evil Version 3: (1) An all-powerful, all-good, all-knowing God exists. (2) Gratuitous or pointless evil exists. Statements (1) and (2) cannot be reconciled.
23 The Problem of Evil The challenge we face as Christians (a challenge also faced by Jews and Moslems), is how can we reconcile statements (1) and (2)? (1) An all-powerful, all-good and all-loving, allknowing God exists. (2a) Evil exists. (2b) Extreme and horrendous evil exists. (2c) Gratuitous and pointless evil exists.
24 The Problem of Evil Note this is a problem mainly for the three great ethical monotheistic religions (Christianity, Judaism, Islam) who believe in one God, all-powerful, all-good, and allknowing. Religions with both powerful good and evil divine principles, such as Zoroastrism (or the world of Star Wars ) don t have a problem explaining evil.
25 The Problem of Evil In the secular world of philosophy, it is today widely acknowledged that all three forms of the problem of evil have failed. That is: theists (= those who believe in an allpowerful, all-knowing, all-good God) have successfully brought forth arguments that can reconcile statements (1) and (2) in the problem of evil. This successful defense by theists does not prove the existence of God, but it does show it is possible to rationally believe in an all-powerful, all-good, and all-knowing God in the face of evil.
26 The Problem of Evil Our journey is this series: To explore some of the arguments made by theists to defend and justify the presence of evil in a world created by an all-powerful, all-good, and allknowing God. In exploring these arguments, we can discover interesting and profound implications for other areas in theology, such as God s intention in creating the universe, and the nature of life after death.
27 Today: The Problem of Evil Some general themes in explaining evil in a world created by an all-powerful, all-good, and allknowing God. Next several weeks: Global Explanations or Theodicies (theodicy = theological lingo for an explanation justifying the existence of God and evil). Often draws upon and combines several general themes for explaining evil.
28 Some Themes in Explaining Evil Leon Bonnat Job 1880
29 Themes in Explaining Evil Evil is an illusion. Won t work in Christianity. The Bible testifies to the existence of evil in brutal candor. What we think is evil may not really be evil. Example: death appears to us to be the ultimate evil, the inevitable frustration and destruction of all our dreams and hopes, of all the goodness of our lives. Death alternatively is simply a transition to another level of being.
30 Themes in Explaining Evil God hears the whole symphony and it is good and harmonious. We hear only a few discordant bassoons and it seems evil to us. But if we are so far removed from hearing the symphony, and can hear only the bassoons, how can we claim any perspective to make moral judgments? What good is our conscience?
31 Themes in Explaining Evil God s morality and moral judgment is so vastly superior to ours that what seems immoral to us is in fact okay in God s superior moral judgment. J. S. Mill ( ): makes God out to be a moral monster whose moral standards are totally dissonant with our own deepest moral convictions. What does it mean then that we are made in the image and likeness of God?
32 Themes in Explaining Evil All s well that ends well. All of today s evil will eventually result in good. Example: an orphaned and deprived child develops a deep sense of compassion and empathy, and becomes a great surgeon in an underdeveloped part of the world. But can such a future good ever justify the brutal murder and premature deaths of the child s parents?
33 Themes in Explaining Evil A lot of evil arises from human actions, so God should not be blamed. But didn t God make Hitler and Stalin and Pol Pot and stand by as they rose to power? Aren t they subject to God s power? A lot of evil is due to the fallen angels (the devil ). Didn t God make the angels? Aren t they subject to God s power?
34 Themes in Explaining Evil Good and Evil are polar concepts. They are logically connected and you can t have one without the other anymore than you can have mountains without valleys. St. Augustine suggested evil is simply the absence of good, the vacuum left when good is lost. Are good and evil truly polar concepts, each logically requiring the other?
35 Themes in Explaining Evil Evils are necessary for God to be glorified The power of a great hurricane can create fear of God and awe of God. Evils more often seem to oppress or crush the human spirit. Evils are necessary as punishments for sin It doesn t seem like the punishments are being equably distributed, and often seem draconian.
36 Themes in Explaining Evil Evils are necessary for the development of secondary virtues. Bravery cannot develop without the presence of real danger. Fortitude cannot develop without the presence of hardship. Generosity cannot develop without the presence of others in need.
37 Themes in Explaining Evil Evil is the necessary result of giving human beings free will. The ability to freely choose to do good requires the possibility that a free human being will chose to do evil. Natural Law Explanation of natural evil: A stable and predictable natural order was necessary as a setting for free humans beings to make moral choices But a stable and predictable natural order, behaving according to amoral physical laws, inherently includes natural evil. The same water that quenches our thirst can also drown us.
38 References God and Evil: An Introduction to the Issues, Michael L. Peterson, Westview Press, Boulder, Colorado, ISBN Philosophy of Religion, fourth edition, John H. Hick, Prentice Hall, Upper Saddle River, NJ, ISBN Philosophy of Religion (Great Courses Lecture Series), James Hall, The Teaching Company, 2003 Philosophy of Religion, Louis P. Pojman, McGraw Hill, New York, ISBN Reason and Religious Belief. An Introduction to the Philosophy of Religion. Third Edition, Michael Peterson, William Hasker, Bruce Reichenbach, and David Basinger, Oxford University Press, Oxford, ISBN
39 Next Time: The Problem of Evil and Pain The Explanation of St. Augustine: The Fall and Original Sin Leon Bonnat Job 1880
The Problem of Evil and Pain 2. The Explanation of St. Augustine: The Fall and Original Sin
The Problem of Evil and Pain 2. The Explanation of St. Augustine: The Fall and Original Sin Leon Bonnat Job 1880 The Problem of Evil and Pain 1: Introduction to the Problem of Evil and Pain 2: The Explanation
The Problem of Evil and Pain 3. The Explanation of Leibniz: The Best of All Possible Worlds
The Problem of Evil and Pain 3. The Explanation of Leibniz: The Best of All Possible Worlds Leon Bonnat Job 1880 The Problem of Evil and Pain 1: Introduction to the Problem of Evil and Pain 2: The Explanation
The Problem of Evil and Pain. 6. The Existential Problem of Evil and Redemptive Suffering
The Problem of Evil and Pain 6. The Existential Problem of Evil and Redemptive Suffering The Problem of Evil and Pain 1: Introduction to the Problem of Evil and Pain 2: The Explanation of St. Augustine:
Whence Evil? M. Andorf. Presented to the Fermi Society of Philosophy. December
Whence Evil? M. Andorf Presented to the Fermi Society of Philosophy. December 8 2017. Motivation In our meetings we frequently bring up the idea of beauty. As physicists we delight in the elegance of the
The Problem of Evil Chapters 14, 15. B. C. Johnson & John Hick Introduction to Philosophy Professor Doug Olena
The Problem of Evil Chapters 14, 15 B. C. Johnson & John Hick Introduction to Philosophy Professor Doug Olena The Problem Stated If God is perfectly loving, he must wish to abolish evil; and if he is allpowerful,
Swinburne: The Problem of Evil
Swinburne: The Problem of Evil THE PROBLEM: The Problem of Evil: An all-powerful being would be able to prevent evil from happening in the world. An all-good being would want to prevent evil from happening
Proofs of Non-existence
The Problem of Evil Proofs of Non-existence Proofs of non-existence are strange; strange enough in fact that some have claimed that they cannot be done. One problem is with even stating non-existence claims:
306 The Brothers Karamazov
306 The Brothers Karamazov [267] What I said was absurd, but That's just the point, that but! cried Ivan. Let me tell you, novice, that the absurd is only too necessary on earth. The world stands on absurdities,
The Problem of Evil and Pain. 2. The Explanation of St. Augustine: The Fall and Original Sin
The Problem of Evil and Pain 2. The Explanation of St. Augustine: The Fall and Original Sin Opening Prayer Lord God, the light of the minds that know you, the life of the souls that love you, and the strength
The Problem of Evil and Pain. 3. The Explanation of Leibniz: The Best of All Possible Worlds
The Problem of Evil and Pain 3. The Explanation of Leibniz: The Best of All Possible Worlds Opening Prayer Almighty and everlasting God, you made the universe with all its marvelous order, its atoms, worlds,
The Problem of Evil. Why would a good God create a world where bad things happen?
The Problem of Evil Why would a good God create a world where bad things happen? The Theist s Response God has a plan. Theism has many responses to the problem of evil. But they all seem to involve, in
Behind the Vale: An examination. of Hick s theodicy. AlevelREblog.wordpress.com
Behind the Vale: An examination of Hick s theodicy On the news this morning, there was a report of yet another humanitarian crisis - this time in the Horn of Africa where an estimated 11million people
THEMES: PROMPT: RESPONSE:
1. Thesis Expand THEMES: Atonement and forgiveness Death and the maiden Doubt and ambiguity Freedom Justice and injustice Memory and reminiscence Morality and ethics PROMPT: Torture is not necessarily
READING MY FAVORITE ATHEISTS: Ivan, Raskolnikov, and Kirilov
CHRISTIAN RESEARCH INSTITUTE PO Box 8500, Charlotte, NC 28271 Feature Article: JAF6352 READING MY FAVORITE ATHEISTS: Ivan, Raskolnikov, and Kirilov by Stephen Mitchell This article first appeared in CHRISTIAN
Morality Without God Rev. Amy Russell Unitarian Universalist Community Church of Glen Allen Sunday, February 7, 2016
Two itinerant preachers were riding horseback to get to the next town where they were scheduled to preach on Sunday. They started talking together and it turned out that one of the preachers was a Universalist.
True Empathy. Excerpts from the Workshop held at the Foundation for A Course in Miracles Temecula CA. Kenneth Wapnick, Ph.D.
True Empathy Excerpts from the Workshop held at the Foundation for A Course in Miracles Temecula CA Kenneth Wapnick, Ph.D. Part II Commentary on Lesson 92 Let's turn to the workbook, Lesson 92. We'll read
The Problem of Evil. 1. Introduction to the Problem of Evil: Imagine that someone had told you that I was all of the following:
The Problem of Evil 1. Introduction to the Problem of Evil: Imagine that someone had told you that I was all of the following: Really smart Really strong and able-bodied One of the best people, morally,
Suffering. These icons indicate that teacher s notes or useful web addresses are available in the Notes Page.
Suffering These icons indicate that teacher s notes or useful web addresses are available in the Notes Page. This icon indicates the slide contains activities created in Flash. These activities are not
Why Do Bad Things Happen to Good People? First Church ( )
1 Why Do Bad Things Happen to Good People? First Church (6-10-12) Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43 Michael T. Powers 2 nd Message in series YOU ASKED FOR IT This morning, we will consider another concern that a
Ivan and Zosima: Existential Atheism vs. Existential Theism
Ivan and Zosima: Existential Atheism vs. Existential Theism Fyodor Dostoevsky, a Russian novelist, was very prolific in his time. He explored different philosophical voices that presented arguments and
IS THIS THE WORLD GOD INTENDED? e m p t i o n S t o r y o f R e d e m p t i o n S t o r y o f R e
e m p t i o n S t o r y o f R e d e m p t i o n S t o r y o f R e IS THIS THE WORLD GOD INTENDED? t o r y o f R e d e m p t i o n S t o r y o f R e d e m p t i o n e m p t i o n S t o r y o f R e d e m
Transhumanists, God, and the Problem of Evil
135 Essay Transhumanists, God, and the Problem of Evil Brent Allsop ABSTRACT Powerful Good beings( i.e. Gods) can be defined to be both able and willing to overcome evils like death and suffering. Any
What's Evil Got To Do With It?: A Thesis on William Rowe s Argument from Evil and John Hick s Soul-Making Theodicy
University of Colorado, Boulder CU Scholar Undergraduate Honors Theses Honors Program Spring 2014 What's Evil Got To Do With It?: A Thesis on William Rowe s Argument from Evil and John Hick s Soul-Making
b602 revision guide GCSE RELIGIOUS STUDIES
b602 revision guide GCSE RELIGIOUS STUDIES How to answer the questions Good and Evil Christianity Good and Evil The Devil; the Fall; Original Sin and Redemption The Problem of Evil What is the problem
Defining good and evil.
Saturday, 24 February 2018 Defining good and evil. L.O. To define the concepts of good and evil. I can explain WHAT GOOD means. I can explain the two types of evil. I can explain good and evil and link
The Story of Redemption
The Story of Redemption Is This the World God Intended? Copyright James Nored 2003 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any
Anthony Bosman, PhD 1. Do we need to win arguments to win souls? 2. Can we be certain that God exists? 3. Has science replaced the need for faith? 4.
Atheism, Apatheism, or Adventism? Anthony Bosman, PhD 1. Do we need to win arguments to win souls? 2. Can we be certain that God exists? 3. Has science replaced the need for faith? 4. Should we still take
(Jim Putman) January 18 th & 21 st, 2018
(Jim Putman) January 18 th & 21 st, 2018 Text in your attendance to # 208.215.7797 Message: lifer9880 Text to give to RLM, simply text your amount to # 208.714.0026 Why God? Part 3: The Problem of Evil
Why does a supposedly powerful and good God allow natural and moral evil to occur?
The Problem of Evil Two types of evil : Moral and Natural Moral Evil: The evil that people deliberately choose to do to one another Natural Evil: The evil that occurs naturally e.g. disease, natural disasters
It Matters What We Believe UUFR UU Fellowship of Raleigh July 22, 2012 Rev. John L. Saxon
It Matters What We Believe UUFR UU Fellowship of Raleigh July 22, 2012 Rev. John L. Saxon I Last winter, I preached a sermon on Spirituality for Atheists. And when Lynda heard what the title of the sermon
Can tragedy come to good people?
Can tragedy come to good people? There is a question that is as old as the first tear, and as recent as the latest newscast. It was asked by Job, and has been asked by every person who has walked upon
Logical Problem of Evil
Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z Logical Problem of Evil The existence of evil and suffering in our world seems to pose a serious challenge to belief
Gethsemane and the Problem of Suffering
Gethsemane and the Problem of Suffering Fr. Matthew the poor God. Gethsemane is the spot where the great encounter took place, where humankind met with It was not by chance that Jesus sought out a garden
The Augustinian Theodicy
The Augustinian Theodicy St Augustine 354-430 AD Books include: The City of God Confessions On Christian Doctrine A theodicy is.......................... Augustine s theodicy is based on two important
Christian Ethics. How Should We Live?
Christian Ethics. How Should We Live? 4. The Divine Command Theory Sunday, June 5, 2005 9 to 9:50 am, in the Parlor. Everyone is welcome! Praise to you, God, for all your work among us. Yours is the vigor
WORLDVIEWS. Everyone Believes
WORLDVIEWS Everyone Believes BIBLICAL WORLDVIEW Two Approaches Systematic vs. Redemptive Historical 5 Categories: Theology, Anthropology, Epistemology, Ontology (metaphysics), Ethics Creation, Fall, Redemption
Are you saved? This question often arises at holiday gatherings where political. philosophies and theological conclusions all converge together.
Are You Saved? The Rev. Gail R. Geisenhainer, Senior Minister First Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Ann Arbor Sunday, November 09, 2014 Are you saved? This question often arises at holiday gatherings
Hick Evil and the God of Love ( , , ) PHIL101 Prof. Oakes updated: 10/8/13 10:09 AM. Section III: How do I know? Reading III.
Hick Evil and the God of Love (289-295, 340-345, 369-372) PHIL101 Prof. Oakes updated: 10/8/13 10:09 AM Section III: How do I know? Reading III.4 John Hick (1922-2012) wrote extensively in theology and
COURSE SYLLABUS LIBERTY BAPTIST THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY
COURSE SYLLABUS LIBERTY BAPTIST THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY APOL 697-393: FAITH AND REASON SUMMER 2014 MEETING DATES: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM JUL 21-JUL 25 MEETING LOCATION: DEMOSS 4020 RICH HOLLAND, PH.D. 919-569-5212
Spiritual Authority Submission To God. Sam Soleyn Studio Session 16 01/2003
Spiritual Authority Submission To God Sam Soleyn Studio Session 16 01/2003 We ve been speaking about spiritual authority and spiritual warfare as a joint subject. As a wrap to this whole series and as
THE UNCOMFORTABLE QUESTION OF EVIL
THE UNCOMFORTABLE QUESTION OF EVIL DANTE NICOTERA PROMPT In the Confessions, Augustine considers the nature and source of evil in the world. Present the argument of VII.12-13. First explain how Augustine
CAN WE HAVE MORALITY WITHOUT GOD AND RELIGION?
CAN WE HAVE MORALITY WITHOUT GOD AND RELIGION? Stephen Law It s widely held that morality requires both God and religion. Without God to lay down moral rules, talk of right and wrong can reflect nothing
Moral Imaginative Resistance to Heaven: Why the Problem of Evil is so Intractable
Moral Imaginative Resistance to Heaven: Why the Problem of Evil is so Intractable Chris A. Kramer The majority of philosophers of religion, at least since Plantinga s reply to Mackie s logical problem
WHERE IS GOD IN OUR PAIN AND SUFFERING?
WHERE IS GOD IN OUR PAIN AND SUFFERING? This study is written by Marilyn Hurst, Apologetics Course Facilitator / Foundations Team leader. Leaders: PLEASE SEND OUT THE PARTICIPANTS MATERIAL FOR YOUR GROUP
The Austrian composer Franz Joseph Haydn memorably set. to music the opening verses of our psalm for today, Psalm
1 Sermon Sunday 16 September 2018 Lessons Proverbs 1: 20 33 James 3: 1 12 St Mark 8: 27 38 Prayer of Illumination Let us pray. Spirit permeating all things, Essence dwelling deep within, Wisdom creating
B. C. Johnson. General Problem
B. C. Johnson God and the Problem of Evil 1 General Problem How can an all-good, all-loving God allow evil to exist? Case: A six-month old baby painfully burns to death Can we consider anyone as good who
A Nietzschean theodicy
International Journal for Philosophy of Religion 55: 69 82, 2004. 2004 Kluwer Academic Publishers. Printed in the Netherlands. 69 A Nietzschean theodicy CAROL A. KATES Ithaca College, 109 Dillingham Center,
Four Laments for Suffering and Spiritual Formation
Four Laments for Suffering and Spiritual Formation #1 Lament Liturgy for the Poor by InterVarsity s Global Urban Trek Leadership Core Call to Worship Leader: Let us pray L: The God of love opens our eyes
STANDING FIRM. through life s hard-hitting trials. 1 P e t e r
STANDING FIRM through life s hard-hitting trials 1 P e t e r waiting hardship difficulty trial struggle persecution injustice brokenness disease discord hatred harm war worry stress demands dishonesty
STATEMENT OF EXPECTATION FOR GRAND CANYON UNIVERSITY FACULTY
STATEMENT OF EXPECTATION FOR GRAND CANYON UNIVERSITY FACULTY Grand Canyon University takes a missional approach to its operation as a Christian university. In order to ensure a clear understanding of GCU
GOD S JUSTICE IN JESUS CHRIST Romans 3:19-28; Reformation; October 27-28, 2018
1 GOD S JUSTICE IN JESUS CHRIST Romans 3:19-28; Reformation; October 27-28, 2018 Two well-known symbols of justice are the scales of justice and a blindfolded Lady Justice holding those scales and a sword.
5 Why Does God Allow Suffering?
Page 1 of 6 QUESTIONS WE WANT ANSWERED 5 Why Does God Allow Suffering? The question we face this morning has to be one of the most difficult for the Christian to answer. Without any exaggeration I am quite
THE SILENCE OF GOD Job 23:1-9, October 11 th, 2015 As I was working on this sermon, I came across a meditation in a book titled A Season of
THE SILENCE OF GOD Job 23:1-9, 16-17 October 11 th, 2015 As I was working on this sermon, I came across a meditation in a book titled A Season of Grace, by Elizabeth M. Hoekstra. Some weeks it s a struggle
G-d and the Haiti Devastation
G-d and the Haiti Devastation Last week saw the terrible earthquake that destroyed much of Haiti, killed tens of thousands of people, and left hundreds of thousands in such horrible inhuman conditions
The Goodness of God in the Judaeo-Christian Tradition
The Goodness of God in the Judaeo-Christian Tradition (Please note: These are rough notes for a lecture, mostly taken from the relevant sections of Philosophy and Ethics and other publications and should
On Suffering, a review of Bart D. Ehrman s book God s Problem:
On Suffering, a review of Bart D. Ehrman s book God s Problem: If I were to be asked the question why don t you believe in God? and if I knew that my questioner was honestly interested in my response (which
Legal and Religious Dimension of Morality in Christian Literature
Legal and Religious Dimension of Morality in Christian Literature Abstract Dragoş Radulescu Lecturer, PhD., Dragoş Marian Rădulescu, Dimitrie Cantemir Christian University Email: dmradulescu@yahoo.com
Nearly everyone, at one time or another, has an incredible
1 The Existence of God Nearly everyone, at one time or another, has an incredible experience that profoundly alters his or her life s journey. At such times most of us turn to the divine, to God, and wonder
youth, of the movie Sodom and Gomorrah. I say first viewing, when actually there was only one viewing- once was plenty for a movie that the Hollywood
Genesis 19:1-16 Saving One There are, I think, only three things I remember clearly from my first viewing, as a youth, of the movie Sodom and Gomorrah. I say first viewing, when actually there was only
PART ONE. Preparing For Battle
PART ONE Preparing For Battle 1 KNOW YOUR ENEMY Be sober, be watchful! For your adversary the Devil, as a roaring lion, goes about seeking someone to devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith... 1 Peter
His Light And Our Darkness
His Light And Our Darkness 1 John 1:5-7 1 That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we looked upon and have touched with our hands, concerning the
Theological Voluntarism: Objections and Replies Keith Burgess-Jackson 7 January 2017
Theological Voluntarism: Objections and Replies Keith Burgess-Jackson 7 January 2017 Theological Voluntarism (TV): 1 For all acts x, x is right iff x conforms 2 to God s will. 3 Commentary: The theory
(Romans 5:6) You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly.
Romans 5:6-11 & 8:31-39 New International Version April 23, 2017 The International Bible Lesson (Uniform Sunday School Lessons Series) for Sunday, April 23, 2017, is from Romans 5:6-11 & 8:31-39. Questions
PHILOSOPHY AND THEOLOGY
PHILOSOPHY AND THEOLOGY Paper 9774/01 Introduction to Philosophy and Theology Key Messages Most candidates gave equal treatment to three questions, displaying good time management and excellent control
NO GOD SUFFERING DOES NOT PROVE THERE IS SCOTT M. SULLIVAN WHY INTRODUCTORY COURSES IN CHRISTIAN APOLOGETICS
Since God is the highest good, He would not allow any evil to exist in His works, unless His omnipotence and goodness were such as to bring good even out of evil. SAINT THOMAS AQUINAS WHY SUFFERING DOES
Augustine, On Free Choice of the Will,
Augustine, On Free Choice of the Will, 2.16-3.1 (or, How God is not responsible for evil) Introduction: Recall that Augustine and Evodius asked three questions: (1) How is it manifest that God exists?
LOST Have You Lost Your Faith (Part 4)
Mailing Address: PO Box 797 Molalla, OR 97038 Phone: 503-829-5101 Fax: 503-829-9502 Pastor Dale Satrum LOST Have You Lost Your Faith (Part 4) Intro: The pain of this life can cause us to question our faith.
Navigating around Hume s Rock of Atheism
Navigating around Hume s Rock of Atheism by Mike Tonks, Second Master, Shrewsbury School Published in Dialogue: A journal of religion and philosophy, issue 49, November 2017 Before starting work this morning
APOSTLES PRISON BREAK. Rev. Robert T. Woodyard First Christian Reformed Church October 21, 2018, 10:30 AM. Scripture Texts: Acts 5:17-32
APOSTLES PRISON BREAK. Rev. Robert T. Woodyard First Christian Reformed Church October 21, 2018, 10:30 AM Scripture Texts: Acts 5:17-32 Prayer: Holy Father, by your Holy Spirit speak to all our hearts
Praying for Others: Even Our Enemies? Acts 7:55-60
Praying for Others: Even Our Enemies? Acts 7:55-60 Rev. Michael D. Halley May 18, 2014 Suffolk Christian Church Suffolk, Virginia Fifth Sunday of Easter ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
PHIL 3480: Philosophy of Religion (3 credits)
Date prepared: 1/22/14 Syllabus The University of New Orleans Dept. of Philosophy PHIL 3480: Philosophy of Religion (3 credits) SECTION 476 & 585: Online Contact Information Texts Instructor: Dr. Clarence
Romans: The Hope of Righteousness (part 1 of 9) Peace with God Means Hope in Hardship
September 7, 2014 College Park Church Romans: The Hope of Righteousness (part 1 of 9) Peace with God Means Hope in Hardship Romans 5:1-5 Mark Vroegop Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we
STANDING FIRM. through life s hard-hitting trials. 1 P e t e r
STANDING FIRM through life s hard-hitting trials 1 P e t e r waiting hardship difficulty trial struggle persecution injustice brokenness disease discord hatred harm war worry stress demands dishonesty
Ronald Dworkin, Religion without God, Harvard University Press, 2013, pp. 192, 16.50, ISBN
Ronald Dworkin, Religion without God, Harvard University Press, 2013, pp. 192, 16.50, ISBN 9780674726826 Simone Grigoletto, Università degli Studi di Padova In 2009, Thomas Nagel, to whom Dworkin s book
Chapter 5: Monotheistic Philosophy
Chapter 5: Monotheistic Philosophy Overview: How do you define God? We will address the same question we addressed last week, but this time from a more Western perspective. Concepts of God in the West
Historic Roots. o St. Paul gives biblical support for it in Romans 2, where a law is said to be written in the heart of the gentiles.
Historic Roots Natural moral law has its roots in the classics; o Aristotle, in Nichomacheon Ethics suggests that natural justice is not the same as that which is just by law. Our laws may vary culturally
THE CHAOS QUESTION Why is there so much evil and suffering in the world? Romans 1:18-28
THE CHAOS QUESTION Why is there so much evil and suffering in the world? Romans 1:18-28 The Church at Canyon Creek, Austin, Texas Monty Watson May 25, 2017 THE CHAOS QUESTION Why is there so much evil
Two Foundations (Matthew 7:24-29)
CFCW-10/12/2014 Two Foundations (Matthew 7:24-29) Introduction In life, how you BEGIN to do something is often very important. This is the case with following directions. I used to work as a delivery driver
CONFESSION AND ABSOLUTION
Church of the Lutheran Confession 12145 W. Edgerton Avenue Hales Corners, Wisconsin 53130 414-427-9337 http://www.messiahhalescorners.com Michael Eichstadt, Pastor Phone: 414-427-9303 Ted Quade, Principal
Owning Your Worldview Considers. The Case for Faith. A Journalist Investigates the Toughest Objections to Christianity.
Owning Your Worldview Considers The Case for Faith A Journalist Investigates the Toughest Objections to Christianity By: Lee Strobel Session 7 Additional Objections Objections from the Book 1. Since Evil
Why does God allow suffering? (part 2)
Week 5 Session 2 Overview This is the second part of this topic. We will look at: The problem of continual suffering Can we profit from pain? A world without pain Suffering beyond our control The Bible
How Can I Prove that God Exists? Genesis 1:1
1 How Can I Prove that God Exists? Genesis 1:1 Introduction At one of the gatherings of the World Congress of Secular Humanism, Richard Dawkins (a world-renowned atheist) allowed an interview with Belief.net.
Introduction to Christian Apologetics June 22nd
Introduction to Christian Apologetics June 22nd Instead, you must worship Christ as Lord of your life. And if someone asks about your Christian hope, always be ready to explain it. 1 Peter 3:15 (NLT) The
Let us now try to go a bit deeper into this mystery. What does the dogma of the Blessed Trinity tell us about God?
THE BLESSED TRINITY If you were to ask a knowledgeable Christian today what is the central and distinctive doctrine of our faith, chances are he or she might respond something along the line that Jesus
Process Theology. A Short Course Michael A. Soderstrand Wellspring UCC Wednesday Morning Group June 11 August 20, 2010, 10:30am
Process Theology A Short Course Michael A. Soderstrand Wellspring UCC Wednesday Morning Group June 11 August 20, 2010, 10:30am Based on the textbook: C. Robert Mesle, Process Theology A Basic Introduction,
DETERMINISM is the view that all events without exception are effects or, a little
DETERMINISM is the view that all events without exception are effects or, a little more carefully, that every event is fully caused by its antecedent conditions or causal circumstances. The conditions
Interview with John Knight: Part 2
Interview with John Knight: Part 2 Conducted by John Piper John Piper: This is our second interview with John Knight, the Director of Development here at Desiring God. I don t assume that all of you have
MORAL RELATIVISM. By: George Bassilios St Antonius Coptic Orthodox Church, San Francisco Bay Area
MORAL RELATIVISM By: George Bassilios St Antonius Coptic Orthodox Church, San Francisco Bay Area Introduction In this age, we have lost the confidence that statements of fact can ever be anything more
Sunday Sermon. Fr Ambrose Young Entrance of the Theotokos Skete
SUNDAY OF THE BLIND MAN My soul, my soul arise, why are you sleeping? The end is drawing near.... (Kontakion of the Great Canon of St. Andrew of Crete) In the Name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy
Bernard Hoose - Proportionalism
Bernard Hoose - Proportionalism Section 1 Proportionalism: Background Proportionalism originated among Catholic scholars in Europe and America in the 1960 s. One influential commentator of Proportionalism
SEMESTER AT SEA COURSE SYLLABUS
Voyage: Fall 2013 Discipline: Philosophy PHIL 1610: Philosophy of Religion Division: Lower Faculty Name: Brian R. Clack SEMESTER AT SEA COURSE SYLLABUS Pre-requisites: One lower division philosophy course
Good evening. And welcome to everyone who s joining us on the Internet.
THE TRUTH IS SIMPLE...IF SELF-RIGHTEOUSNESS IS THE NUMBER ONE CAUSE OF DEATH...THEN ITS ABANDONMENT IS THE NUMBER ONE CAUSE OF THE REVELATION OF YOUR ETERNAL LIFE... UNCHALLENGEABLE...UNCHANGEABLE...ACTUAL...ABSOLUTE.
In Judging Others, We Judge Ourselves (Romans 2)
In Judging Others, We Judge Ourselves (Romans 2) In around A. D. 57, from the city of Corinth in Greece, the apostle Paul wrote the letter to all who are in Rome to both Jewish and non-jewish Christians
TURNING EVIL INTO GOOD Genesis 45:1-8a, 50: Dr. J. Howard Olds August 11, 2002
TURNING EVIL INTO GOOD Genesis 45:1-8a, 50:19-20 Dr. J. Howard Olds August 11, 2002 The year was 1963. I was a graduating senior in high school and as president of our class I wrote in the year book this
LIFE IS DIFFICULT Expecting & Embracing Trouble Unbreakable Series (Part 6) Texts: John 16:33; Philippians 3:7-14
LIFE IS DIFFICULT Expecting & Embracing Trouble Unbreakable Series (Part 6) Texts: John 16:33; Philippians 3:7-14 One of the great benefits of being a disciple of Jesus is the practical instruction we
Elements of a Good Moral Decision
Elements of a Good Moral Decision UNIT 3, LESSON 10 Learning Goals We are free, and freedom makes us moral subjects. We are body and soul. Our bodies are temporary; our souls are eternal. We are social
Sermon: The Innocent Servant (Isaiah 53:7 9)
Sermon: The Innocent Servant (Isaiah 53:7 9) Dan Mueller, 26th March 2017, Lent 4 Text Isaiah 53:7 9 NIV 7 He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth; he was led like a lamb to the slaughter,
nature of love. Man rejected God, man had to restore that relationship. That was achieved through Jesus Christ.
Can joy be found in suffering? This is a very strange question. Since joy and suffering appear as polar-opposites, few people would even consider this to be rational. A similar question, but a question
Why Does G od Allow S uffering & Evil? Pt. 1
Why Does G od Allow S uffering & Evil? Pt. 1 S mall G roup C urriculum If only villains got broken backs or cancers, if only cheaters and crooks got Parkinson s disease, we should see a sort of celestial
NEW YORK CITY COLLEGE OF TECHNOLOGY THE CITY UNIVERSITY OF NEW YORK DIVISION OF LIBERAL ARTS AND GENERAL EDUCATION DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SCIENCES
NEW YORK CITY COLLEGE OF TECHNOLOGY THE CITY UNIVERSITY OF NEW YORK DIVISION OF LIBERAL ARTS AND GENERAL EDUCATION DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SCIENCES PHIL3209/PH209: PHILOSOPHY OF RELIGION (formerly HU309)