As a Christian studying the Bible and engaging with apologetic works, I find Lee Strobel’s The Case for Faith an insightful resource for addressing challenges to belief. In this essay, I aim to summarize Objection 6 from the expanded version of the text, which focuses on the problem of evil and a loving God, outline Christianity’s response as presented by Strobel, and reflect on the deliberation questions posed at the chapter’s end. This exploration not only deepens my understanding of theological dilemmas but also strengthens my personal faith by wrestling with complex issues. My analysis will draw on Strobel’s arguments and relevant academic perspectives to provide a balanced view of this significant objection to Christian belief.
Objection 6: The Problem of Evil and a Loving God
Objection 6 in The Case for Faith centers on the apparent contradiction between the existence of a loving, all-powerful God and the pervasive presence of evil and suffering in the world (Strobel, 2000). As I read this chapter, I noted that Strobel, through his interview with philosopher Peter Kreeft, articulates the skeptic’s position: if God is truly benevolent and omnipotent, why does He allow atrocities, natural disasters, and personal pain to persist? This question, often termed the ‘problem of evil,’ challenges the coherence of Christian theism. The objection suggests that either God is not all-powerful, and thus cannot prevent evil, or He is not wholly good, and chooses not to intervene. For me, as a believer, this resonates as a profoundly personal issue—how can I reconcile the suffering I see with the God I worship? Strobel frames this as not merely an intellectual puzzle but an emotional and existential struggle for many, including myself.
Christianity’s Response to the Problem of Evil
In response, Strobel presents a defense through Kreeft’s philosophical insights, emphasizing free will, the greater good, and the mystery of God’s purposes (Strobel, 2000). Kreeft argues that God grants humans free will to enable genuine love and moral choices, which necessarily allows for the possibility of evil. Furthermore, he posits that suffering often serves a purpose, such as building character or drawing individuals closer to God, though this purpose may not always be evident to us. For instance, personal trials in my own life have often led to spiritual growth, even if I couldn’t see it at the time. Kreeft also highlights that God’s omniscience means His perspective transcends human understanding—our limited view cannot grasp the ultimate reasons for evil’s existence. Additionally, Strobel underscores the Christian belief in the Cross, where God Himself entered into human suffering through Jesus Christ, demonstrating solidarity with humanity’s pain. This, for me, offers a comforting lens: God is not distant but deeply involved in our struggles.
Deliberations and Reflections
At the end of the chapter, Strobel poses reflection questions that prompt personal engagement with these ideas. One question asks how I have seen good emerge from suffering in my life. Reflecting on this, I recall a difficult period of loss that ultimately deepened my reliance on God and community, teaching me resilience and empathy. Another question probes whether I trust God even when His reasons are unclear. Honestly, this is challenging; there are moments when doubt creeps in, especially during global crises like pandemics or wars. However, my faith is bolstered by remembering biblical narratives, such as Job’s story, where trust in God’s sovereignty prevails despite unanswered questions (Job 38-42). Finally, I am asked to consider if the problem of evil undermines my belief. While it tests my faith, I find that exploring responses like Kreeft’s and grounding myself in scripture helps me maintain trust in God’s ultimate goodness, even if imperfectly understood.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Objection 6 from The Case for Faith articulates a profound challenge to Christianity through the problem of evil, questioning the compatibility of a loving, all-powerful God with a suffering world. The Christian response, as presented by Strobel and Kreeft, offers explanations centered on free will, the potential for good in suffering, and the mystery of divine purpose, alongside the redemptive act of the Cross. Reflecting on the deliberation questions, I find that while the issue remains complex, my personal experiences and biblical teachings reinforce my trust in God amidst uncertainty. This exploration not only addresses an intellectual dilemma but also deepens my spiritual journey, reminding me that faith often involves wrestling with unanswered questions. Indeed, as I continue to study and reflect, I see the problem of evil not as a barrier but as an invitation to trust more fully in God’s overarching plan.
References
- Strobel, L. (2000) The Case for Faith: A Journalist Investigates the Toughest Objections to Christianity. Zondervan.
