The Problem of Evil and Suffering How can we believe in God in a world which suffers?

What is EVIL? There are two types of evil:  Moral evil: deliberately caused by humans e.g cruelty  Natural evil: things which happen accidentally such as earthquakes and floods. Many people think that the existence of evil and suffering in the world shows that there is no God or if he exists, he is unkind.

Cancer patients suffer – many of whom are innocent children why? What about the tsunami – where was God? Why doesn’t God stop evil people from committing moral crimes?

What is the Fall? Christians say the world was made perfect but that the people disobeyed God. Christians say the world was made perfect but that the people disobeyed God. This is called THE FALL (Adam and Eve story) In the Bible God gave Man many opportunities to ‘do the right thing’ But Man wasn’t interested So suffering is a punishment for sin

Why does God allow suffering? FREE WILL was given by God but sometimes people do not use it wisely. Because gave them freedom they have the opportunity to make wrong choices – and this is when we see evil and suffering!

Why do we need evil or suffering? Bravery: We would not be brave unless there was danger Human emotion: We need to develop our selves as humans and have lots of experiences Generosity: We couldn’t be generous unless there were people in need Patience: we learn this from waiting

Religious faith Some people say that suffering is a kind of test for God to see how people will respond. Others disagree and say God knows everything – He doesn’t need to test us Others say the test is for us

Do you agree that suffering is part of a higher plan?  I is said that God has a plan for us but we do not always know this.  He is a higher being and we may not understand this plan.  God san see everything in perspective - the bigger view- and therefore we should not question his plans. Sometimes we have to accept that suffering is part of this plan.

Does the devil exist?  Evil and suffering are the work of the Devil or Satan.  They encourage wrong doing and cause natural disasters.  However some say that the Devil cannot exist otherwise God isn’t all powerful

Christian and Muslim attitudes towards suffering and evil Christian  Suffering is a test of faith  Suffering is a punishment for sin  Suffering is part of God’s plan  God gave us free will to use as we wish  Acts of nature that God allows to happen Muslim  Suffering is a test for the next life (This is not the only life, there is a better and more lasting life to come)  Allah has a plan (Good can come from suffering  Humans have free will