Suffering and Evil: The Probability Version

Key Insights

Logical vs. Probability Version of Evil

• The logical version of the problem of evil argues that the existence of suffering makes it impossible for God to exist, but this argument has been shown to fail, even by atheist philosophers.

• The probability version suggests that while God and suffering can coexist, it’s highly unlikely that God has good reasons for allowing suffering.

Limits of Human Understanding

• Humans are limited in time, space, and intelligence, making it difficult to assert that God lacks reasons for allowing suffering.

• God has a comprehensive perspective of history and may permit suffering for purposes we do not understand.

Background Information Matters

• Probabilities are relative to background information. The existence of God might seem improbable when only considering suffering but could change when considering other evidence supporting God's existence.

Christian Doctrines Supporting Coexistence of God and Suffering

• Purpose of Life: Christianity posits that the ultimate goal is to know God, not just to be happy. Suffering can lead to a deeper relationship with God.

• Human Rebellion: The presence of evil is expected as a result of humanity's rebellion against God and His purposes.

• Eternal Perspective: Suffering in this life is temporary, with eternal life beyond death providing hope and meaning.

• Knowing God: The knowledge of God is presented as an incomparable good, allowing those who suffer to still find fulfillment.

Emotional Aspect of Suffering

• Intellectual arguments may fail to address the emotional impact of suffering. Many may feel disconnected from God despite His existence.

• God's Promise: God promises to be with individuals during their suffering, offering strength and hope.

Purpose of Christ's Suffering

• Jesus Christ's suffering serves a purpose: to create a life-giving connection to God. His pain is portrayed as a source of hope for humanity.

Final Hope

• The message concludes with a promise of ultimate restoration where God will eliminate suffering and pain, emphasizing His love and commitment to humanity.

Key Quote: "He can give you the strength to endure... He will wipe every tear from their eyes."

Study Guide: The Problem of Suffering and Evil

Overview

This guide summarizes the arguments surrounding the problem of suffering and evil in relation to the existence of God, focusing on both the logical and probability versions of the argument.

Key Concepts

1. Logical Problem of Evil

   • Argues that the existence of suffering and evil makes it logically impossible for God to exist.

   • Many philosophers, including atheists, agree this argument fails.

2. Probability Problem of Evil

   • Suggests that while God and suffering can coexist, the existence of suffering makes it highly improbable that God has good reasons for allowing it.

Key Arguments Against the Probability Problem

1. Limitations of Human Perspective

   • Humans have limited understanding of time, space, and intelligence.

   • God has a comprehensive view of history and may allow suffering for greater purposes.

2. Background Information Matters

   • Probabilities depend on the context.

   • If we consider the full scope of evidence, including arguments for God's existence, the probability of God existing may increase.

3. Christian Doctrines Supporting Coexistence of God and Suffering

   • Purpose of Life: The ultimate goal is to know God, not merely to be happy. Suffering can deepen this knowledge.

   • Human Rebellion: Moral evils reflect humanity's alienation from God, which is expected in a fallen world.

   • Eternal Perspective: Life on earth is temporary; suffering is fleeting compared to eternal life with God.

   • Value of Knowing God: Knowing God is the ultimate fulfillment, making suffering bearable.

Emotional Aspect of Suffering

• Acknowledges the emotional struggle with suffering.

• God promises to be present during suffering and offers strength.

• Jesus Christ's suffering serves a purpose, providing a connection to God and hope for renewal.

Conclusion

• The problem of evil does not disprove God's existence.

• The emotional impact of suffering is significant, but God’s love and promise of renewal provide hope.

Key Quotes

• "God whispers to us in our pleasures, speaks in our consciences, but shouts in our pains."

• "He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death, or mourning, crying, or pain."

Study Tips

• Reflect on how each argument relates to personal experiences of suffering.

• Consider the implications of each Christian doctrine on the understanding of suffering.

• Discuss the emotional aspects of suffering and how they relate to faith in God.

This guide serves as a concise reference for understanding the complex relationship between suffering, evil, and the existence of God, particularly from a Christian perspective.

Understanding the Problem of Suffering and Evil: A Christian Perspective

The age-old question of why suffering and evil exist in a world created by a loving God has perplexed philosophers, theologians, and everyday individuals alike. In a recent discussion, the speaker tackled two primary arguments surrounding this issue: the logical problem of evil and the probability problem of evil. While the logical argument suggests that the existence of suffering and evil makes it impossible for God to exist, the probability argument posits that, although God’s existence isn’t impossible, it is highly unlikely given the prevalence of suffering.

The Logical Problem of Evil

The logical problem of evil asserts that if God is all-powerful, all-knowing, and all-good, then evil should not exist. However, even many atheist philosophers concede that this argument fails. The speaker emphasizes that the existence of suffering does not logically negate the existence of God. Instead, it invites a deeper exploration of the nature of God and the purpose of suffering.

The Probability Problem of Evil

Moving beyond the logical argument, the probability problem of evil suggests that while God and suffering can coexist, the sheer amount of suffering in the world makes it improbable that God has good reasons for allowing it. This perspective raises an important question: Are we in a position to confidently assert that God lacks reasons for permitting suffering?

1. Limited Perspective: The speaker argues that our understanding is inherently limited by our finite nature—our intelligence, insight, and temporal existence. In contrast, God possesses an infinite perspective, seeing the entirety of history and the intricate tapestry of human choices. What may seem pointless suffering to us could be part of a larger divine plan that we cannot comprehend.

2. Background Information Matters: Probabilities are always relative to the background information we consider. For instance, if we only focus on suffering, it may seem improbable that God exists. However, when we take into account the powerful arguments for God’s existence—such as the complexity of the universe, moral values, and personal experiences of the divine—our perspective shifts. The speaker encourages us to broaden our scope of evidence before concluding that God’s existence is improbable.

3. Christian Doctrines Supporting Coexistence: The speaker outlines four key Christian doctrines that enhance the probability of God’s coexistence with suffering:

   • Purpose Beyond Happiness: Contrary to popular belief, the ultimate purpose of life is not mere happiness. Christianity teaches that knowing God is the true fulfillment of human existence. Suffering can lead to a deeper relationship with God, as it often prompts individuals to seek Him more earnestly. Interestingly, regions that have faced significant hardships often experience remarkable growth in Christianity, suggesting that suffering can serve as a catalyst for spiritual awakening.

   • Human Rebellion: The existence of moral evil is not surprising to Christians; it is expected as a result of humanity’s rebellion against God. This perspective frames suffering as a consequence of free will and moral choices rather than a failure of God’s goodness.

   • Eternal Perspective: The Christian worldview posits that this life is merely a prelude to an eternal existence. The Apostle Paul, who faced immense suffering, wrote about the temporary nature of earthly afflictions compared to the eternal glory that awaits believers. This doctrine offers hope that suffering is not the end but a part of a larger narrative leading to eternal joy.

   • Incomparable Good of Knowing God: Ultimately, the knowledge of God is presented as the highest good. Even amidst suffering, those who have a relationship with God can affirm His goodness. This perspective transforms the experience of suffering into an opportunity for growth and deeper understanding.

The Emotional Problem of Suffering

While the intellectual arguments against the existence of God in light of suffering may falter, the emotional weight of suffering remains profound. Many individuals who have experienced deep pain or witnessed loved ones suffer may feel disconnected from God, questioning His goodness and presence. The speaker acknowledges this emotional struggle, emphasizing that it is a common human experience.

However, the message of hope is clear: God knows each person by name and is intimately aware of their suffering. The suffering of Jesus Christ serves as a powerful reminder that God is not distant from human pain; rather, He entered into it. His suffering was purposeful, providing a pathway for humanity to reconnect with God.

Conclusion: A Message of Hope

In conclusion, the problem of suffering and evil does not disprove the existence of God. Instead, it invites a deeper exploration of faith, purpose, and the nature of God. While suffering is a reality of the human experience, it can also lead to profound spiritual growth and a closer relationship with the divine.

For those grappling with pain, the promise remains: God is present in suffering, offering strength, hope, and the assurance that one day, all things will be made new. As the speaker poignantly states, “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death, or mourning, crying, or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” This message of hope is a powerful reminder that even in the darkest moments, there is light to be found in faith.