Why Does God Allow Evil and Suffering?

 

1. How did evil begin?

Evil began on earth when Satan told the first lie.  Satan was originally a perfect angel, but "he did not stand fast in the truth." (John 8:44)  He developed a desire for worship that rightly belongs only to God. Satan lied to the first woman, Eve, and persuaded her to obey him instead of God. Adam joined Eve in disobeying God. Adam's decision led to suffering and death. - Read GENESIS 3:1-6, 19.

When Satan suggested that Eve disobey God, he was starting a rebellion against God's sovereignty, or position as Most High.  The majority of mankind have joined Satan in rejecting God as their Ruler. Thus, Satan has become "the ruler of the world. " - Read JOHN 14:20; 1 JOHN 5:19. 

Note: God decided to send Satan to earth to prove that Satan was and is not a good ruler, and God has been proved right that Satan is a lousy ruler and God will be able to keep his sovereignty with his faithful and discreet servants who worship, trust, work for him  preaching and teaching the truth to everyone, nation, tribe, and tongue. 

2. Was God's creation defective?

All of God's works are perfect. The humans and angels whom God created were capable of obey9ing God perfectly. (Deuteronomy 32:4, 5)  God created us with the freedom to choose between doing good or doing evil. That freedom gives us a  way to express our love for God. -Read JAMES 1:13-15; 1 JOHN 5:3.

Next time: Why Does God Allow Evil and Suffering? - Why Has God Allow Suffering Until Now?

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