Become New with John Ortberg
12. Why God Allows Suffering and Our Bend Toward Isolation with Dr. Eleonore Stump & John Ortberg
Nov 5, 2024
Dr. Eleonore Stump, a professor of philosophy at St. Louis University and author of "Wandering in Darkness," engages in a profound discussion about the nature of suffering and its implications for faith. They explore the paradox of willed loneliness, delving into the fear of vulnerability. The conversation touches on the moral dimensions of suffering and how personal relationships enhance our understanding of divine love. Stump emphasizes the transformative potential of suffering, positioning it as a key to spiritual fulfillment.
43:29
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Quick takeaways
- Suffering serves a profound purpose, often rooted in human moral failings, challenging our understanding of a benevolent God.
- Willed loneliness reflects an internal struggle, where the desire for connection is hindered by fear and self-imposed barriers.
Deep dives
The Significance of Suffering
Suffering is a profound challenge that many struggle with, particularly in relation to faith in a benevolent God. The discussion presents suffering as an inherent part of human existence, often leading to questions about God's rationality if He allows such pain. The conversation highlights the distinction between suffering caused by human actions and natural suffering, suggesting that most suffering has roots in human moral failings. This underscores a deeper reflection on the nature of suffering as potentially serving a purpose, drawing on examples from history to illustrate the pervasive and sometimes systemic nature of human-inflicted pain.
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