R.C. Sproul, founder of Ligonier Ministries, delves into the profound question of whether God is the author of evil. He tackles the theological complexities of God's goodness in a world filled with sin and suffering. Sproul discusses the intricate relationship between divine sovereignty and evil, emphasizing that while God allows for evil, He does not author it. Highlighting historical debates on theodicy, he offers insight into how tragedy can lead to redemption, urging listeners to reflect on God's purpose and wisdom amidst moral dilemmas.
God's nature as wholly good challenges believers to reconcile His sovereignty with the existence of evil in the world.
Theodicy serves as an intellectual exploration of why an all-loving God permits evil, urging deeper theological reflection on divine providence.
Deep dives
The Nature of God's Goodness
God is inherently good, a concept that underpins the discussion about the existence of evil in the world. He is characterized as wholly righteous and without any inclination toward evil, which raises profound questions regarding the origin of evil amidst His perfect goodness. This dilemma is often presented as an Achilles' heel of Christianity, as philosophers have historically wrestled with whether God's omnipotence aligns with the reality of evil. The paradox is significant, as it challenges believers to reconcile the existence of evil with the nature of a sovereign and loving God.
Understanding Theodicy
Theodicy arises as an intellectual attempt to justify God's goodness despite the presence of evil, seeking to answer why an all-loving and all-powerful God would allow evil to exist. Throughout history, various theodicies have been proposed, yet many fall short of satisfactorily addressing the question of the origin of evil. For instance, some might argue that evil is but an illusion, a perspective that ultimately undermines the very real struggles faced by humanity. The inquiry into theodicy encourages deep theological reflection and a return to foundational truths about God's nature as good and sovereign.
God's Sovereignty Over Evil
The discussion emphasizes that God's providence extends to all events, including the fall of humankind, suggesting that God ordains everything that occurs, including the existence of evil. This idea may provoke discomfort, as it implicates God in the reality of evil, but it is essential to acknowledge that God's sovereignty does not equate to Him being the author of evil. The affirmation of God's omnipotence asserts that even in the presence of evil, His ultimate governance produces purposes that align with His goodness and wisdom. The concept challenges believers to trust in God's character and His capacity to derive good from evil, affirming that His divine plan holds a deeper significance beyond human comprehension.
God is altogether good and altogether in control. How do sin and suffering fit into this picture? Today, R.C. Sproul continues his study of the Westminster Confession to consider the place of evil under God’s good providence.
Get Truths We Confess, R.C. Sproul’s commentary on the Westminster Confession, for your donation of any amount: https://gift.renewingyourmind.org/3706/truths-we-confess Meet Today’s Teacher: R.C. Sproul (1939–2017) was known for his ability to winsomely and clearly communicate deep, practical truths from God’s Word. He was founder of Ligonier Ministries, first minister of preaching and teaching at Saint Andrew’s Chapel, first president of Reformation Bible College, and executive editor of Tabletalk magazine. Meet the Host: Nathan W. Bingham is vice president of ministry engagement for Ligonier Ministries, executive producer and host of Renewing Your Mind, host of the Ask Ligonier podcast, and a graduate of Presbyterian Theological College in Melbourne, Australia. Nathan joined Ligonier in 2012 and lives in Central Florida with his wife and four children.
Renewing Your Mind is a donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
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