SS Outline 6.7.2026

Practical Theology – Week 9 – The Problem of Evil
Theme: The existence of evil and suffering is one of the most common objections to Christianity. Scripture teaches that evil is real, that God is sovereign, and that the cross of Christ offers the deepest answer to suffering.

1. Opening
Scripture: Habakkuk 1:1–4; Romans 8:18–28

2. The Objection

• A common argument against Christianity:
  • If God is all-powerful, He could stop evil.
  • If God is all-good, He would want to stop evil.
• Evil exists.
  • Therefore, God does not exist.

3. The Biblical Perspective on Evil

• Scripture does not deny suffering. It speaks honestly about it.
• Key truths:

1. Evil entered through human sin

• Genesis 3 records the fall of humanity.
• The brokenness of the world flows from rebellion against God.

2. God remains sovereign

• God rules even over suffering (Isaiah 45:7; Amos 3:6).
• Nothing happens outside His providence.

3. Evil never has the final word

• God works all things for good for those who love Him (Rom 8:28).
• The story of Scripture moves toward restoration.

4. The Cross as the Center of the Answer

• The greatest evil in history was the crucifixion of Christ.
• Yet through that evil God accomplished good in salvation (Acts 2:23).
• This shows:
  • God can bring good out of the worst suffering.
  • God Himself entered into human suffering.
  • The resurrection promises that suffering will not last forever.

5. Pastoral Wisdom in Apologetics

• When people raise the problem of evil:
  • Do not begin with philosophical arguments.
• Instead:
  • Listen carefully.
  • Acknowledge the pain involved.
  • Affirm that Christianity takes suffering seriously.
  • Show how the cross reveals God’s justice and mercy.

6. Real-Life Case Study
Scenario
A friend says: “If God were loving, my mother wouldn’t have died from cancer. I can’t believe in a God who allows that.”

• Suggested Response Process

1. Listen and empathize
: Express genuine sorrow for the loss.
2. Avoid quick answers
: Suffering requires compassion before explanation.
3. Affirm biblical truth": 
The world is broken because of sin. Death was never part of God’s original design.
4. Point to Christ
: Jesus Himself wept at the tomb of Lazarus (John 11:35).
He also suffered and died to defeat death.
5. Offer hope: The resurrection promises a future where death will be destroyed (Rev 21:4).