The problem of evil arises from the incompatibility of an all-powerful and all-loving God with the existence of evil and suffering.
Process theology offers an alternative view of God's power, reimagining God as a God of uncontrollable love rather than omnipotence.
There is a need for a nuanced understanding of how God relates to the world, acknowledging the complexity of love and the limitations of control.
Deep dives
Reframing the Doctrine of Discovery
The podcast episode features a class taught by Sarah Augustine on unpacking the doctrine of discovery, a philosophical and legal framework that allowed Christian governments in the 15th century to invade Indigenous lands. The class explores a theological framework for decolonizing this doctrine and discusses concrete steps towards seeking repair.
The Problem of Evil From a Theological Perspective
The podcast episode discusses the problem of evil from a theological point of view with theologian and author Thomas G. Ord. The conversation delves into the incompatibility of a God who is all powerful and all loving with the existence of evil and suffering. Thomas G. Ord offers a solution by reimagining God as a God of uncontrollable love rather than omnipotence.
Different Perspectives on the Problem of Evil
The discussion explores classical solutions to the problem of evil, such as theodicy and the free will defense, while acknowledging their shortcomings. It also highlights the need for a more nuanced understanding of how God relates to the world, one that recognizes the complexity of love and the limitations of control. The aim is not to solve the problem, but to offer alternative frameworks for grappling with the mystery of evil and suffering.
The Role of Mystery in Discussing the Problem of Evil
The podcast presents the role of mystery in the problem of evil, distinguishing between a healthy acknowledgement of the limits of human understanding and a 'mystery card' used to avoid critical thinking or justify theological inconsistencies. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining a humble stance and an openness to ongoing exploration and reflection on the nature of God and the problem of evil.
Summary Wrap-Up
The podcast episodes shed light on the complex issue of the problem of evil. It challenges traditional theological concepts and offers new perspectives on the nature of God and the compatibility of divine attributes. The discussions invite listeners to engage in deep reflection and exploration, recognizing the limitations of human understanding while seeking to grapple with the profound questions raised by the problem of evil.
In part two of our series on the problem of evil, Jared and Pete talk with Tom Oord about why people struggle to reconcile evil and suffering with a good God, theological solutions to the problem throughout history, and how process theology offers a different view of God’s power.
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