Problems of Faith - Part 3

Part 3. God and Suffering

In these six talks, Problems of Faith, Pawson addresses major objections and dilemmas that often trouble Christian belief: other religions, war, suffering, miracles, healing, and capital punishment. He examines each topic through careful biblical exposition rather than simplistic slogans or isolated proof-texts. Presenting Christianity as uniquely grounded in God’s revelation through Jesus, while also wrestling honestly with the moral complexity of war, the mystery of suffering, and the possibility of divine intervention in miracles and healing. Throughout, he resists easy answers: suffering is not neatly explained, miracles cannot be dismissed by science alone, and healing requires discernment rather than rigid formulas.

A consistent thread running through the series is Pawson’s distinction between personal Christian conduct and the responsibilities of wider society or the state. He argues that believers must live by the values of Christ’s kingdom while also recognizing, in areas such as war and capital punishment, the biblical role of government in restraining evil and administering justice. His conclusions are often cautious and nuanced rather than absolute, but the overall emphasis is clear: Christians should think from the whole Bible, hold together truth and compassion, and approach difficult questions with humility, moral seriousness, and trust in God.