The problem of suffering

An argument often used by those who doubt the existence of God is related to suffering. They will point to the example of a child dying of cancer or some horrible event that brings harm and death to innocent people. They then challenge the existence of God by saying that Christians teach that God is all-loving and all-powerful, and yet innocent people are allowed to suffer. Therefore, their conclusion is that either God does not exist or He is not all-loving or all-powerful, and therefore, even if He does exist, He is not worthy of worship. Frankly, it appears to be a good argument as virtually everyone wishes that people did not have to suffer the things that can come into one's life. However, this argument fails on several counts.

One, those who make this argument are often the same ones who claim there is no objective morality. They believe that people should be free to do what they please without any moral judgment being placed on them. But, their claim that suffering is bad or wrong is a moral judgment. If there is no objective morality, what is the basis for their moral judgment? Perhaps they believe that a particular action is wrong, but if another does not hold to that belief, and there is no foundational basis for moral values, then who can say that anything is good or bad?

Second, just because we might not recognize a good reason for suffering does not mean that there is not one. Many will tell you that the greatest insights they ever gained came through a time of suffering in their lives. Countless people have testified that they have accomplished the things in life they've accomplished as a result of going through times of testing.

A third reason the argument fails is that there is nothing inconsistent in the nature of God that would prevent suffering. God often allows us to experience the consequences of the choices we make, and sometimes those consequences are painful. If God prevented us from experiencing those consequences we would probably make even worse choices than we do now.

Finally, suffering is a result of living in a broken world. When sin entered the world it brought with it suffering and death. There will come a time when all suffering will cease, but this is not that time.

Everyone will go through times of suffering at some point in their lives. Some will experience it much worse than others. Because it is such an important part of our lives, and because it can cause even the most dedicated Christian to question his or her faith, I am going to begin a three-part sermon series in the church I serve starting next Sunday on the subject of suffering. If you live in the Westport, Indiana area I invite you to join us at 10:30 for worship. If you live away, the service will be broadcast live on our church's Facebook page at  https://www.facebook.com/WestportBaptistChurch. It will also be available on our church's webpage at https://westportbaptistchurch.org.