Jeff Durbin Answering 'The Problem of Evil'

Recent questions

• Why is it important to discuss evil from a Christian perspective?

  To provide a basis for defining and addressing evil actions, the speaker emphasizes the significance of discussing evil from a Christian perspective. By starting with God, there is an absolute standard to measure evil, allowing for moral judgment and condemnation of such actions. Without this foundation, actions would occur without moral scrutiny, highlighting the necessity of a Christian perspective to address the concept of evil.

• How does the speaker argue for the existence of an absolute standard to measure evil?

  The speaker argues that starting with God provides an absolute standard to measure evil. Without this basis, actions would happen without moral judgment, lacking a foundation for moral indignation and empathy towards victims of evil acts. By beginning with God, there is a reason to address and condemn evil actions, establishing a framework for defining and evaluating the concept of evil.

• What reasons does the speaker propose for the existence of evil in a world created by a good God?

  The speaker explores the philosophical question of why evil exists in a world created by a good God, proposing that God has morally sufficient reasons for allowing evil to occur. By delving into the concept of God's foreknowledge and decree of events, the speaker asserts that nothing happens outside of God's will, suggesting that there are underlying reasons for the presence of evil in a world governed by a good God.

• How does the speaker discuss the intersection of God's sovereignty and human responsibility in the face of evil events?

  The speaker delves into the theological perspective on responsibility, using the crucifixion of Jesus as an example of how God's sovereignty and human responsibility intersect in the face of evil events. By emphasizing that God's knowledge is intertwined with his decree of events, the speaker highlights the complex relationship between God's sovereignty and human responsibility when confronted with evil occurrences.

• What connection does the speaker draw between the fall of man and the presence of evil in the world?

  Concluding with a reflection on the fall of man and its impact on creation, the speaker connects the concept of a fallen world to the presence of evil. By attributing the existence of evil to humanity's rebellion against God's covenant, the speaker underscores the relationship between the fall of man and the pervasive nature of evil in the world, highlighting the theological implications of humanity's actions on the presence of evil.