UNBELIEVABLE: The Problem of Evil

1. The Problem Stated and Felt

2. Rational Responses to the Problem

A. Only proves we have a finite understanding

B. Atheism proves too much. If we throw away God, we throw away evil.

3. The Story the Bible Tells

A. God Hates Evil
The LORD saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every intention of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually. And the LORD regretted that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved him to his heart.
(Genesis 6:5-6 ESV)

B. God Loves People
And when the LORD smelled the pleasing aroma, the LORD said in his heart, “I will never again curse the ground because of man, for the intention of man's heart is evil from his youth. Neither will I ever again strike down every living creature as I have done.
(Genesis 8:21 ESV)

C. God Withstands Evil to Save His People

For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.

(2 Corinthians 5:21 ESV)

D. God Promises to Eradicate Evil Completely

And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.”
And he who was seated on the throne said, “Behold, I am making all things new.” Also he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.”

(Revelation 21:3-5 ESV)