The Problem of Evil

The “Problem of Evil” is one of the biggest philosophical challenges to a belief in God and is a major contributor to the rejection of Christianity.  In fact, well-known biblical scholar and critic Bart Ehrman credits the problem of evil with his own loss of faith.  We’ve addressed this topic in an earlier article, but a more comprehensive response is appropriate.  The problem can be simply stated as follows:

  1. If God is all-good, He would want to destroy evil
  2. If God is all-powerful, He could destroy evil
  3. Evil exists
  4. Therefore, an all-good, all-powerful God does not exist

The logic seems sound on the surface.  But can these really be our only options?  Clearly, the problem of evil presents believers with a dilemma.  Or does it? Continue reading