The problem of evil revisited

“Epicurus’ old questions are yet unanswered. Is he willing to prevent evil, but not able? then he is impotent. Is he able, but not willing? then he is malevolent. Is he both able and willing? whence then is evil?” This was how David Hume framed the problem of evil in Dialogues Concerning Natural Religion.

But if we only tackle this problem at an intellectual level it would be of little help to most people. For most, this issue is emotional, not intellectual. People are hurting deeply and don’t care one bit about philosophical solutions. God is in the dock, charged with allowing gratuitous evil and suffering in the world (especially in people’s lives).

Reflection on the cross of Christ can bring this problem into perspective. Christ endured physical and emotional pain beyond human comprehension. None of us can even begin to imagine what he went through in bearing the punishment of sin for the entire world.

Only when we fully comprehend what Christ went through on our behalf will we realize that it is not God, but man who is in the dock. The real problem of evil is the problem of our evil. So the question is not how God can justify himself before us; but rather, how can we justify ourselves before God? The answer is the cross of Jesus Christ.

The cross is mankind’s only hope. It is where Christ redeemed us from the evil in our hearts. All we are left to do is to accept his invitation: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me … and you will find rest for your souls.” In the midst of life’s pain and suffering, there is one who is both willing and able to help. May we accept his invitation; this very day, this very hour.