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If God, Why Evil?: A New Way to Think About the Question by Norman L. Geisler
Where Did Evil Come From? And Why Doesn't God Do Something About It?
The problem of evil is perhaps the most difficult question the Christian must face. If God is good and all-powerful, why is there suffering in the world? Can't God put an end to murder, rape, and starvation? What about earthquakes, hurricanes, and tsunamis? Why couldn't a perfect God have made a perfect world?
In this concise but thorough book, Dr. Norman Geisler carefully answers these tough questions, using step-by-step explanations and compelling examples. He walks the reader through time-tested answers but also provides a new approach revolving around whether or not this world is the "best of all possible worlds." All this adds up to comforting news for believers: We can rest assured that God is both loving and all-powerful.
"This is classic Geisler--brilliant, incisive, succinct, convincing. He's one of the great defenders of Christianity."
--Lee Strobel, author, The Case for Christ and The Case for the Real Jesus
"This is one of the clearest, most comprehensive, and penetrating presentations on one of the most difficult problems that thinking Christians face."
--Ravi Zacharias, Author/speaker, President Ravi Zacharias International Ministries
The problem of evil is perhaps the most difficult question the Christian must face. If God is good and all-powerful, why is there suffering in the world? Can't God put an end to murder, rape, and starvation? What about earthquakes, hurricanes, and tsunamis? Why couldn't a perfect God have made a perfect world?
In this concise but thorough book, Dr. Norman Geisler carefully answers these tough questions, using step-by-step explanations and compelling examples. He walks the reader through time-tested answers but also provides a new approach revolving around whether or not this world is the "best of all possible worlds." All this adds up to comforting news for believers: We can rest assured that God is both loving and all-powerful.
"This is classic Geisler--brilliant, incisive, succinct, convincing. He's one of the great defenders of Christianity."
--Lee Strobel, author, The Case for Christ and The Case for the Real Jesus
"This is one of the clearest, most comprehensive, and penetrating presentations on one of the most difficult problems that thinking Christians face."
--Ravi Zacharias, Author/speaker, President Ravi Zacharias International Ministries
Paperback
First published February 1, 2011
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About the author
Norman L. Geisler
226 books315 followersNorman L. Geisler (PhD, Loyola University of Chicago) taught at top evangelical colleges and seminaries for over fifty years and was a distinguished professor of apologetics and theology at Veritas Evangelical Seminary in Murrieta, California. He was the author of nearly eighty books, including the Baker Encyclopedia of Christian Apologetics and Christian Ethics. He and his wife lived in Charlotte, North Carolina.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
September 7, 2011
As Geisler writes in the introduction, "At the same time our heart needs comfort, our head needs answers". Just such answers are the focus here. If God, Why Evil? by Norm Geisler is a sharp, intellectual stab at the heart of one of Christianity's most vexing questions (and yes, that question just happens to be the title). While the book is brief, Geisler brings all his apologetic weight to bear and the result is a pleasure to read.
This book is not for those struggling with evil and pain on a deep personal level. For such, this will feel too academic, too sterile. However, for those struggling with Christianity because of the intellectual objection surrounding God and evil, I cannot think of a book I would recommend more highly. It's smart and brief. It will take a few hours to read but a few weeks to digest.
While I think the brevity of the book is a great selling point, I think the publisher was a little worried about it. I merely say that because there are a couple appendices tacked on the end that seem only loosely related. Titles like "Animal Death Before Adam" and "A Critique of The Shack" should prove my point.
All in all, this is a solid book. Oh yeah, and it has my daughter's endorsement as well!
This book is not for those struggling with evil and pain on a deep personal level. For such, this will feel too academic, too sterile. However, for those struggling with Christianity because of the intellectual objection surrounding God and evil, I cannot think of a book I would recommend more highly. It's smart and brief. It will take a few hours to read but a few weeks to digest.
While I think the brevity of the book is a great selling point, I think the publisher was a little worried about it. I merely say that because there are a couple appendices tacked on the end that seem only loosely related. Titles like "Animal Death Before Adam" and "A Critique of The Shack" should prove my point.
All in all, this is a solid book. Oh yeah, and it has my daughter's endorsement as well!
September 5, 2017
Outstanding clarity and depth of explanation.
September 25, 2016
Norman Geisler has been studying and teaching for over fifty years. His writings include topics such as apologetics, systematic theology, philosophy, Old Testament, and New Testament survey. After September 11, 2001 there was a resurgence of writings discussing the problem of evil and suffering. Nearly every year another new book concerning evil appears. The new atheists and secular humanist aggressively refute the existence of God, and the reality of the Christian faith. The problem of evil is their strongest argument.
In the introduction Geisler suggests that his book is different from all others; he affirms this in three points. The three points are these; the book is clear, concise, and comprehensive. I can agree that the book is concise and clear, but I disagree that the book is comprehensive. He does demonstrate knowledge about the subject and clearly it is a theodicy that he has developed over the years. His study and thought about the material is grounded in his extensive study and experience. He has made an excellent attempt to cooperate the existence of an omnibenevolent God with the reality of the problem of evil.
There are many books that discuss the problem of evil, and there have been many theologians and philosophers who have developed a theodicy. This book is not the best I have read on the subject, nor is it the most informative. But, I can appreciate the book for several reasons, one of which is because I could not have written it. Secondly, the book is not overly scholarly or philosophic making it easier to read. It is written in a way that will appeal to people who have little or no understanding of theodicy, a beginner’s book for potential theologians.
Throughout the book Geisler developed syllogisms for and against the existence of God as well as other arguments concerning theodicy; he explained each of them and responded to them with his biblical and rational perspective. I agreed with most of them. His headings were bold with larger font; this aspect allows the reader to locate points easily.
I recognize that Geisler is a soft-determinist because I have read a multi-view book on predestination and free will that Geisler has contributed to. There are slight differences in our theology, but this did not deter me from reading this book. I wanted to read his perspective, and will soon read many other perspectives. There is great value in reading what others think; it helps to refine one’s thinking and theology. I respect Geisler as an authority on the Bible, theology, and apologetics; he has written many books. It would be foolish to neglect a theodicy from such a respected and prolific Christian writer.
Geisler included in his theodicy a chapter discussing hell. I appreciate that he has chosen to write about hell. The idea of hell is not comfortable to think about, but as we discuss theology and theodicy we cannot avoid hell. There are those who consider hell too great a punishment and many reject God on this basis. There is no perfect theodicy, but a theodicy is best developed when hell is taken into consideration. Hell is suffering. The book included a chapter explaining inclusivism and exclusivism, these are also very important when developing a theodicy. Even though theodicy attempts to explain the reality of a benevolent God and evil, one cannot deny that there is a necessary explanation for how God relates to people in the process of our lives.
Despite Geisler’s efforts to write comprehensively he failed to develop a view on the suffering of Christ and the evil that took place at his trial and sacrifice. A theodicy is incomplete when it excludes the suffering of Christ. I believe the compassionate movement of God, and the suffering of Christ is foundational for a theodicy.
As I expected Geisler slightly contradicts himself, this happens as a result of his soft-determinism. He wants to avoid blaming God as the source for evil; in fact he does this by attributing suffering to the fall of Satan and man. Yet, he also writes, “God has a good purpose for everything He does or permits. Hence we know for sure that there is a good purpose for all suffering – including the apparently unjust or innocent kinds.” (P49) Geisler is advocating a greater good theodicy, a theodicy, that at the moment I am unwilling to accept, as it is currently defined. He also suggests that all of God’s creation was perfect at the moment of creation. This claim I refute based upon the reality that God is the only Perfect Being. Perfection is one attribute that God did not share when He created man in His own image. This may be a matter of semantics, however I affirm what Scriptures say about God’s creation of man, very good.
As I begin the development of my own theodicy I am encouraged to see that even scholars neglect some necessary truths. Books are tools in my toolbox; I am blessed with another tool. Overall this book is a great resource; even though Geisler and I differ in some areas I also recognize that I have much to learn. As I consider what others write my own views are challenged. It was refreshing to read a book that did not include so much philosophical and theological jargon. Many authors write their theodicy in a complicated manner and as a result I am mentally exhausted. I did not feel overwhelmed as I read Geisler’s book, and I am glad that he simplified the material in such a way that one does not have to be a scholar to understand the material.
Geisler, Norman L. If God, Why Evil? Minneapolis, Minnesota: Bethany House Publishers, 2011.
In the introduction Geisler suggests that his book is different from all others; he affirms this in three points. The three points are these; the book is clear, concise, and comprehensive. I can agree that the book is concise and clear, but I disagree that the book is comprehensive. He does demonstrate knowledge about the subject and clearly it is a theodicy that he has developed over the years. His study and thought about the material is grounded in his extensive study and experience. He has made an excellent attempt to cooperate the existence of an omnibenevolent God with the reality of the problem of evil.
There are many books that discuss the problem of evil, and there have been many theologians and philosophers who have developed a theodicy. This book is not the best I have read on the subject, nor is it the most informative. But, I can appreciate the book for several reasons, one of which is because I could not have written it. Secondly, the book is not overly scholarly or philosophic making it easier to read. It is written in a way that will appeal to people who have little or no understanding of theodicy, a beginner’s book for potential theologians.
Throughout the book Geisler developed syllogisms for and against the existence of God as well as other arguments concerning theodicy; he explained each of them and responded to them with his biblical and rational perspective. I agreed with most of them. His headings were bold with larger font; this aspect allows the reader to locate points easily.
I recognize that Geisler is a soft-determinist because I have read a multi-view book on predestination and free will that Geisler has contributed to. There are slight differences in our theology, but this did not deter me from reading this book. I wanted to read his perspective, and will soon read many other perspectives. There is great value in reading what others think; it helps to refine one’s thinking and theology. I respect Geisler as an authority on the Bible, theology, and apologetics; he has written many books. It would be foolish to neglect a theodicy from such a respected and prolific Christian writer.
Geisler included in his theodicy a chapter discussing hell. I appreciate that he has chosen to write about hell. The idea of hell is not comfortable to think about, but as we discuss theology and theodicy we cannot avoid hell. There are those who consider hell too great a punishment and many reject God on this basis. There is no perfect theodicy, but a theodicy is best developed when hell is taken into consideration. Hell is suffering. The book included a chapter explaining inclusivism and exclusivism, these are also very important when developing a theodicy. Even though theodicy attempts to explain the reality of a benevolent God and evil, one cannot deny that there is a necessary explanation for how God relates to people in the process of our lives.
Despite Geisler’s efforts to write comprehensively he failed to develop a view on the suffering of Christ and the evil that took place at his trial and sacrifice. A theodicy is incomplete when it excludes the suffering of Christ. I believe the compassionate movement of God, and the suffering of Christ is foundational for a theodicy.
As I expected Geisler slightly contradicts himself, this happens as a result of his soft-determinism. He wants to avoid blaming God as the source for evil; in fact he does this by attributing suffering to the fall of Satan and man. Yet, he also writes, “God has a good purpose for everything He does or permits. Hence we know for sure that there is a good purpose for all suffering – including the apparently unjust or innocent kinds.” (P49) Geisler is advocating a greater good theodicy, a theodicy, that at the moment I am unwilling to accept, as it is currently defined. He also suggests that all of God’s creation was perfect at the moment of creation. This claim I refute based upon the reality that God is the only Perfect Being. Perfection is one attribute that God did not share when He created man in His own image. This may be a matter of semantics, however I affirm what Scriptures say about God’s creation of man, very good.
As I begin the development of my own theodicy I am encouraged to see that even scholars neglect some necessary truths. Books are tools in my toolbox; I am blessed with another tool. Overall this book is a great resource; even though Geisler and I differ in some areas I also recognize that I have much to learn. As I consider what others write my own views are challenged. It was refreshing to read a book that did not include so much philosophical and theological jargon. Many authors write their theodicy in a complicated manner and as a result I am mentally exhausted. I did not feel overwhelmed as I read Geisler’s book, and I am glad that he simplified the material in such a way that one does not have to be a scholar to understand the material.
Geisler, Norman L. If God, Why Evil? Minneapolis, Minnesota: Bethany House Publishers, 2011.
February 1, 2018
One line review: Using a very logical framework, this book attempts to address how there can be God if evil exists in the world. The framework is compelling and the evidence is well developed. I agreed with about 90% of the approach and answers which encompass logic, scientific evidence, moral arguments and other ideas.
December 28, 2012
How many times have people questioned God because of disease, wars, natural disasters, death of loved ones, abuse, and other painful situations? What is worse, Christians often seem to be unable to find biblical answers to those in need of comfort. This is where this book is crucial. In a practical, sharp, thorough and precise way, Mr. Geisler makes an exhaustive exposition about Evil, considering different worldviews, and demonstrating why the existence of Evil even proves God's.
So far, it is the only book about evil I have read that is a match for any philosopher more interested in human goals, which might sound very good, but are just a path away from our Creator. Despite its deep argumentation about Evil, including its nature, origin, persistence, purpose, avoidability, physicality, its apparently miraculous and eternal (Hell) nature, as well as those who have not heard about God, the author makes it very easy to read and provides every day examples that enlighten what he explains. He never ceases to patiently and accurately consider statements and critiques, leading the reader through logical argumentation, arriving to the answers of questions that seemed to be so distant, always with a sound, Biblical foundation. And, in case the reader is in need of further study, this book is also a compendium of materials that will allow anyone to know more about any of the worldviews referred to - the author himself recognizes that he cannot include every single question about evil he has been asked, or every single argument within human knowledge.
The author includes three appendices. The first one is about animal death before Adam; I consider it to be a good introduction to the matter, as it refers to the different theories about creation. The second appendix is about evidence for the existence of God; it includes apologetic arguments that every Christian should know. Just as in the rest of the book, they include good references the reader can go to, if interested in the topic.
The third appendix is a summarized critique about "The Shack," a very popular book that attempts to comfort people who have lost a loved one. It seems odd that Mr. Geisler included it, but after reading it, I understood why; as accepted as "The Shack" is, I consider that it is far from the God of the Bible. The whole article is found in the author's website.
Overall, this is an invaluable apologetic tool that should be in every committed Christian's library.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for a review. This did not bias my opinion on the book, nor on the author.
So far, it is the only book about evil I have read that is a match for any philosopher more interested in human goals, which might sound very good, but are just a path away from our Creator. Despite its deep argumentation about Evil, including its nature, origin, persistence, purpose, avoidability, physicality, its apparently miraculous and eternal (Hell) nature, as well as those who have not heard about God, the author makes it very easy to read and provides every day examples that enlighten what he explains. He never ceases to patiently and accurately consider statements and critiques, leading the reader through logical argumentation, arriving to the answers of questions that seemed to be so distant, always with a sound, Biblical foundation. And, in case the reader is in need of further study, this book is also a compendium of materials that will allow anyone to know more about any of the worldviews referred to - the author himself recognizes that he cannot include every single question about evil he has been asked, or every single argument within human knowledge.
The author includes three appendices. The first one is about animal death before Adam; I consider it to be a good introduction to the matter, as it refers to the different theories about creation. The second appendix is about evidence for the existence of God; it includes apologetic arguments that every Christian should know. Just as in the rest of the book, they include good references the reader can go to, if interested in the topic.
The third appendix is a summarized critique about "The Shack," a very popular book that attempts to comfort people who have lost a loved one. It seems odd that Mr. Geisler included it, but after reading it, I understood why; as accepted as "The Shack" is, I consider that it is far from the God of the Bible. The whole article is found in the author's website.
Overall, this is an invaluable apologetic tool that should be in every committed Christian's library.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for a review. This did not bias my opinion on the book, nor on the author.
February 24, 2021
This is an excellent book with flaws. Prof. Geisler seeks to answer the challenge of evil from a new Christian perspective. While he does a really fine job in systematically answering the questions and challenges, I am not convinced that he manages to do so in a new way. Also, in the introduction he states that he seeks to answer the challenges from the perspective of heart and head. I believe he tried, but I also think he failed. His writing is too cerebral to do an adequate job in dealing with the challenge of dealing with the heart and with emotions. But he does a mostly outstanding job in dealing with the philosophical issues surrounding each challenge. From my perspective his chapter on Hell was weak, as I found myself internally arguing with the author on views that I don’t even hold, but still thought his arguments were skeleton arguments. In particular he misrepresented the view held by people like John Stott.
The appendices were not as good as the rest of the book, and none were as complete as the main chapters. A critic could poke holes in all. In Appendix one he deals with the Christian debate about whether there was animal death before Adam. The chapter was OK, but included a really bad typo, where he writes: “According to the geological timetable, multi-cellular life appeared on earth about a half million years ago and has been dying ever since.” Only off by 1000 times. Appendix 2 was quite good, and Appendix 3 seemed out of place in the book, where he criticised the book “The Shack”.
So, this is a really good reference book, but I wouldn’t recommend it to someone who was actually suffering due to evil.
The appendices were not as good as the rest of the book, and none were as complete as the main chapters. A critic could poke holes in all. In Appendix one he deals with the Christian debate about whether there was animal death before Adam. The chapter was OK, but included a really bad typo, where he writes: “According to the geological timetable, multi-cellular life appeared on earth about a half million years ago and has been dying ever since.” Only off by 1000 times. Appendix 2 was quite good, and Appendix 3 seemed out of place in the book, where he criticised the book “The Shack”.
So, this is a really good reference book, but I wouldn’t recommend it to someone who was actually suffering due to evil.
October 30, 2024
I would have given this a 3.5 if I could because I think it is better than a 3. He Gave a good short answer to why evil can be in this world and the biblical understanding of God is still very logically possible. I think the argument that stood out to me was this one
Nothing can’t be better than something. Because nothing is nothing
So when the thought or the argument arises that if God knew some where going to go to hell or knows this person is going to be murdered or raped when did God even bother creating them because surly it would be better if that person did not exist rather than experience rape, murder or hell. Norman goes onto show that this is a logical fallacy as nothing can’t be better that something as nothing is nothingness.
Another good argument is how God uses pain to train and discipline people to seek him or to become like him.
The classical C.S Lewisham quote is quoted twice pain being God megaphone to rouse a death world
All in all not a bad book and I think the atheists who comment on this are being critical purely out of their worldview not because they can give good logical counter arguments to the authors claims
Nothing can’t be better than something. Because nothing is nothing
So when the thought or the argument arises that if God knew some where going to go to hell or knows this person is going to be murdered or raped when did God even bother creating them because surly it would be better if that person did not exist rather than experience rape, murder or hell. Norman goes onto show that this is a logical fallacy as nothing can’t be better that something as nothing is nothingness.
Another good argument is how God uses pain to train and discipline people to seek him or to become like him.
The classical C.S Lewisham quote is quoted twice pain being God megaphone to rouse a death world
All in all not a bad book and I think the atheists who comment on this are being critical purely out of their worldview not because they can give good logical counter arguments to the authors claims
February 25, 2020
This book asks some important questions about one of the most serious charges against Christianity - the problem of evil. Geisler presents some complex ideas in a simple way, often breaking them down into easy-to-follow logical formulations. While I appreciated the way he framed the questions, I was not satisfied with many of the answers he offered, the most problematic being his embrace of libertarian free will. In several places he relied on straw man arguments by misrepresenting Calvinist theology. Lastly, I’m not clear why the subtitle of this book is “A New Way to Think About the Question.” There’s really nothing new here. The idea of privation, for example, dates back to at least Augustine in the 4th century.
November 13, 2022
One of the poorest defenses of a good god that I have read. I can't believe that so much got through the editors, but it did. In the beginning the author states that "since god is good, he is incapable of creating evil." The author quotes various verses but forgets Isaiah 45:7 "I (YHWH) form the light, and create darkness: I make peace, and create evil: I the LORD do all these things.” Some versions translate "evil" disaster or misery. Either way God is not creating good. Never does the author attempt to debunk this verse or any other verses where god commands to kill babies or anyone that does not believe in him. Here are just a few of those verses. Kill People Who Don’t Listen to Priests (Deuteronomy 17:12)
Kill Witches (Exodus 22:17)
Kill Homosexuals (Leviticus 20:13)
Kill Fortunetellers (Leviticus 20:27)
Kill those who strike their parents (Exodus 21:15)
Kill Those Who Curse Their Parents (Leviticus 20:9)
Kill Adulterers (Leviticus 20:10)
Kill Fornicators (Leviticus 21:9)
Kill Followers of Other Religions (Exodus 22:19)
Kill Nonbelievers (2 Chronicles 15:12-13)
Kill Women Who Are Not Virgins on Their Wedding Night (Deut. 22:20-21)
Kill Blasphemers (Leviticus 24:10-16)
Kill Infidels and Gays (Romans 1:24-32)
Kill Anyone who Gets Too Close to the Tabernacle (Numbers 1:48-51)
Kill Sabbath Breakers (Exodus 31:12-15)
Kill Disrespectful Children (2 Kings 2:23-24)
Kill the Curious (1Samuel 6:19-20)
Kills the Good Samaritan (2 Samuel 6:3-7)
Kill Sons of Sinners (Isaiah 14:21)
Kill Men, Women, and Children (Ezekiel 9:5-7)
God Kills all the First Born of Egypt (Exodus 12:29-30)
Kill Old Men and Young Women (Jeremiah 51:20-26)
God Will Kill the Children of Sinners (Leviticus 26:21-22)
God orders Rape and Baby Killing (Isaiah 13:15-18
The author clearly does not know his bible. And for those who say What about the NT? Jesus Approved of the Cruelty of The Law (Matthew 5:17)
Jesus Came to Perpetuate Chaos and Death (Matthew 10:34)
Jesus Requires Family and Child Abandonment (Matthew 19:29)
Jesus Champions Genocide (Matthew 11:20)
Kill Church People for failing to turn over proceeds from sale of property (Acts 5:1-11)
Jesus Requires the Total Destitution of His Followers (Mark 10:21)
Kill Those Who Disobey a Prophet (1 Kings 20:35-36)
Jesus Was a False Prophet (Matthew 21:21-22) (Matthew 7:7-8) (Matthew 18:19-20) (Mark 11:24-25) (Luke 11:9-13) (John 14:13-14) (John 15:7) (John 15:16) (John 16:23-24) (Matthew 23:36 & 24:34)
Kill False Prophets (Zechariah 13:3)
Since God does these things or orders them, can god be good even if he says he is? You be the jury. Remember that "For I am the Lord, I change not; therefore, ye sons of Jacob are not consumed." Malachi 3:6
All this is chapter 1, I won't write a book about the other chapters. Don't bother reading this. It will waste your time.
Kill Witches (Exodus 22:17)
Kill Homosexuals (Leviticus 20:13)
Kill Fortunetellers (Leviticus 20:27)
Kill those who strike their parents (Exodus 21:15)
Kill Those Who Curse Their Parents (Leviticus 20:9)
Kill Adulterers (Leviticus 20:10)
Kill Fornicators (Leviticus 21:9)
Kill Followers of Other Religions (Exodus 22:19)
Kill Nonbelievers (2 Chronicles 15:12-13)
Kill Women Who Are Not Virgins on Their Wedding Night (Deut. 22:20-21)
Kill Blasphemers (Leviticus 24:10-16)
Kill Infidels and Gays (Romans 1:24-32)
Kill Anyone who Gets Too Close to the Tabernacle (Numbers 1:48-51)
Kill Sabbath Breakers (Exodus 31:12-15)
Kill Disrespectful Children (2 Kings 2:23-24)
Kill the Curious (1Samuel 6:19-20)
Kills the Good Samaritan (2 Samuel 6:3-7)
Kill Sons of Sinners (Isaiah 14:21)
Kill Men, Women, and Children (Ezekiel 9:5-7)
God Kills all the First Born of Egypt (Exodus 12:29-30)
Kill Old Men and Young Women (Jeremiah 51:20-26)
God Will Kill the Children of Sinners (Leviticus 26:21-22)
God orders Rape and Baby Killing (Isaiah 13:15-18
The author clearly does not know his bible. And for those who say What about the NT? Jesus Approved of the Cruelty of The Law (Matthew 5:17)
Jesus Came to Perpetuate Chaos and Death (Matthew 10:34)
Jesus Requires Family and Child Abandonment (Matthew 19:29)
Jesus Champions Genocide (Matthew 11:20)
Kill Church People for failing to turn over proceeds from sale of property (Acts 5:1-11)
Jesus Requires the Total Destitution of His Followers (Mark 10:21)
Kill Those Who Disobey a Prophet (1 Kings 20:35-36)
Jesus Was a False Prophet (Matthew 21:21-22) (Matthew 7:7-8) (Matthew 18:19-20) (Mark 11:24-25) (Luke 11:9-13) (John 14:13-14) (John 15:7) (John 15:16) (John 16:23-24) (Matthew 23:36 & 24:34)
Kill False Prophets (Zechariah 13:3)
Since God does these things or orders them, can god be good even if he says he is? You be the jury. Remember that "For I am the Lord, I change not; therefore, ye sons of Jacob are not consumed." Malachi 3:6
All this is chapter 1, I won't write a book about the other chapters. Don't bother reading this. It will waste your time.
January 31, 2025
Theodicy in a Nutshell, But One Problem Remains
Norman Geisler, the late educator and theologian, was a prolific author who examined nearly every aspect of Christianity in his many valuable books. In “If God, Why Evil?” he wrote on the oldest issue of all, theodicy – how can an all good, all powerful, and all knowing God allow evil to continue in His creation? The Bible’s oldest book, Job, addresses the conundrum, making it, in a sense, the oldest problem of Judeo-Christian monotheism.
Geisler, in fewer than 120 pages (plus three appendices of arguable benefit), takes on the meaning and nature of evil and rebuts (through critical evaluation of their premises) the arguments against the existence of the God of Christianity from the problem of evil. He is thorough, but concise and readable, as he must be in such a brief book. “If God, Why Evil?” offers an excellent overview of all the major issues with the reality of evil and its logical compatibility with a loving God.
But, as irrefutable as the logic is, logic is of little benefit to persons experiencing evil themselves. Their question is less “why evil” than “why me”, as Job asked. Geisler’s book provides the reader with excellent intellectual understanding of the problem of evil, and that is so important and worth the reading for that reason, but it doesn’t attempt to answer the emotional and personal problem of “why me” for the sufferer or the person wanting to comfort those who suffer.
Norman Geisler, the late educator and theologian, was a prolific author who examined nearly every aspect of Christianity in his many valuable books. In “If God, Why Evil?” he wrote on the oldest issue of all, theodicy – how can an all good, all powerful, and all knowing God allow evil to continue in His creation? The Bible’s oldest book, Job, addresses the conundrum, making it, in a sense, the oldest problem of Judeo-Christian monotheism.
Geisler, in fewer than 120 pages (plus three appendices of arguable benefit), takes on the meaning and nature of evil and rebuts (through critical evaluation of their premises) the arguments against the existence of the God of Christianity from the problem of evil. He is thorough, but concise and readable, as he must be in such a brief book. “If God, Why Evil?” offers an excellent overview of all the major issues with the reality of evil and its logical compatibility with a loving God.
But, as irrefutable as the logic is, logic is of little benefit to persons experiencing evil themselves. Their question is less “why evil” than “why me”, as Job asked. Geisler’s book provides the reader with excellent intellectual understanding of the problem of evil, and that is so important and worth the reading for that reason, but it doesn’t attempt to answer the emotional and personal problem of “why me” for the sufferer or the person wanting to comfort those who suffer.
July 17, 2022
Un excelente libro que aborda el tema del mal y sufrimiento en el mundo de una manera magistral. Sin lugar a dudas este libro es un trabajo excepcional de Norman Geisler en donde trata de ofrecer una explicación a uno de los cuestionamientos más frecuentes en cuanto a la existencia de Dios, el mal.
Durante la lectura de este libro podemos ver como el autor nos lleva por una explicación sistemática sobre el mal en el mundo y la aparente contradicción de un Dios de amor. Me gustó mucho las explicaciones al inicio del libro sobre la naturaleza del mal. Fueron buenos e interesantes ejemplos que el autor utiliza.
Puedo decir que aprender sobre cómo es que existen ciertas cosas en el universo es fascinante y para mí es muy fascinante leer sobre las explicaciones a las aparentes contradicciones sobre la existencia de Dios.
Este libro hacia ya bastante tiempo que quería leerlo y ahora que pude hacerlo, puedo decir que es un excelente libro sobre el tema de apologética. Sin duda podemos encontrar buenos argumentos a favor de la existencia de Dios y explicaciones a temas difíciles como lo es la existencia del mal.
Recomiendo este libro a todo aquel que desee conocer más sobre el tema de la existencia del mal en el mundo.
Durante la lectura de este libro podemos ver como el autor nos lleva por una explicación sistemática sobre el mal en el mundo y la aparente contradicción de un Dios de amor. Me gustó mucho las explicaciones al inicio del libro sobre la naturaleza del mal. Fueron buenos e interesantes ejemplos que el autor utiliza.
Puedo decir que aprender sobre cómo es que existen ciertas cosas en el universo es fascinante y para mí es muy fascinante leer sobre las explicaciones a las aparentes contradicciones sobre la existencia de Dios.
Este libro hacia ya bastante tiempo que quería leerlo y ahora que pude hacerlo, puedo decir que es un excelente libro sobre el tema de apologética. Sin duda podemos encontrar buenos argumentos a favor de la existencia de Dios y explicaciones a temas difíciles como lo es la existencia del mal.
Recomiendo este libro a todo aquel que desee conocer más sobre el tema de la existencia del mal en el mundo.
May 27, 2024
THE NOTED PHILOSOPHICAL APOLOGIST LOOKS AT THESE QUESTIONS
Norman Geisler is a famed apologist and theologian. He wrote in the Introduction to this 2011 book, “In my fifty years of studying difficult questions, none is asked more often than, ‘If God exists, then why is there so much evil in the world?’… Despite this, I know of no short, simple, readable, and comprehensive book on the topic. [This book] attempts to fill this gap… people are hungering for a truly comforting answer when faced with suffering, tragedy, and death. I know this from personal experience. I have lost my father, my mother, my sister, and (hardest of all) my daughter… At the same time our heart needs comfort, our head needs answers... this work attempts to be CORRECT. We are not engaging in mere intellectual exercises; we are searching for truth… Finally, this book seeks to be COMFORTING. We are not interested only in intellectual solutions but in practical ones as well.”
He notes, “every thinking Christian is faced with this: If everything God made was good, then how can evil be real? Or, if evil is real, then how can God not have created it?... The reply is found in what is meant by a ‘thing’ (substance)… we need not agree that there are evil ‘things.’ How then can evil be real but not a thing?.. Evil is a real lack, privation, or corruption of a good thing. That is, evil does not exist in itself: evil exists only in a thing or substance---and all things God made are good… Evil is real---a real lack, a real corruption. But it is not a real thing.” (Pg. 18-19)
He explains, “God’s role in the world is similar to that of a book’s ‘author.’ He wrote the whole story in advance… Every character---whether for good or evil---acts freely… So while the author of the villain’s actions, the villain is making them freely and is responsible for them… God does not promote or perform the evil actions of his creatures; He merely permits them within the overall story of human history, which He has authored in advance and which moves forward under His sovereign direction… In short, God is the ‘author’ of everything that happens in the indirect and ultimate sense; He is not the immediate cause of evil actions… He permits them and controls the course of history so that it accomplishes His ultimate purposes.” (Pg. 24)
He states, “there still is a serious issue with the revised argument from evil’s persistence… the third premise: ‘Evil is not defeated.’ It has no time indicator on it… Evil may yet be defeated in the future. It simply does not follow that because God has not yet defeated evil He never will… Give Him a chance. Listen to the whole thing. History is not over. Let’s wait to hear ‘the rest of the story.’” (Pg. 40)
He points out, “that we don’t KNOW a good reason for some evil does not mean that there is no good purpose for it. There are many things we don’t know. And there are many things we once did not know but now do know. So it should be expected that in the future we will discover good purposes for things for which we do not know a good purpose… This gives us reasonable confidence that in the future we will be able to explain good purposes for evils we cannot now explain.” (Pg. 47)
He argues, “A world with even one person in hell would not be the best world CONCEIVABLE. But granting that creatures are truly free, a world with an untold number of people in hell may be the best world ACNIEVABLE. This is because not everything logically possible is actually attainable… it is possible that the amount of people in heaven, even though it is less than all persons who ever lived, is the highest number of people God knew He would achieve getting there without violating their free choice.” (Pg. 66-67) He summarizes, “This present world is not the best of all possible worlds, but it is the best of all possible ways to the best of all achievable worlds.” (Pg. 68)
He cautions, “Of course the answers to how long and ow much physical pain and suffering would be necessary to accomplish God’s purposes are known only to God… One thing is certain. A pint-sized human brain is in no position to dictate to the Omniscient One what is too much or too long!... Of this we can be sure, based on the fact that God is both all-good and all-knowing. It won’t be too long, and it won’t be too much.” (Pg. 91-92)
He suggests, "It is noteworthy that nowhere does the Bible describe [Hell] as a ‘torture chamber’ where people are forced against their will to be tormented…. A loving God (1 Jn 4:16) would no torture anyone. This does not mean hell isn’t a place of torment… [But] this torment is SELF-inflicted by one’s will… the door of hell is locked on the inside, its inhabitants condemned to their own freedom. Torment is living with the consequences of our own bad choices… those in hell know that the pain they suffer is self-inflicted.” (Pg. 103-104) He continues, “hell is for the unreformable and unrepentant, the reprobate… It is not for anyone who is reformable. If they WERE, they would still be alive. God in His wisdom and goodness would not allow anyone to go to hell whom He knew would go to heaven if He gave more opportunity.” (Pg. 109)
He also asserts, “By a majestic display of wrath, God recovers the majesty He has been refused. An awful display of punishment in the afterlife will bring to God what people refused to give Him in this life. Those who give God no glory by choice during this life will be forced to give Him glory in the afterlife.” (Pg. 111) He adds, “But hell cannot veto heaven. We can be happy in heaven in the same way we can be happy eating a delicious meal, knowing that others are starving… Since God is not miserable at the thought or sight of hell, neither will we be---even in the case of people we loved in this life.” (Pg. 112) And finally, “nonexistence cannot be said to be a better condition than any kind of existence… Someone may FEEL like being put out of his misery, but it is contradictory to affirm that NONBEING is a better state of BEING.” (Pg. 113)
While some of Geisler’s answers may be a bit on the “Calvinistic” for some, this is a frank, clear, and penetrating statement on this issue, and will be of great interest to anyone studying this subject.
Norman Geisler is a famed apologist and theologian. He wrote in the Introduction to this 2011 book, “In my fifty years of studying difficult questions, none is asked more often than, ‘If God exists, then why is there so much evil in the world?’… Despite this, I know of no short, simple, readable, and comprehensive book on the topic. [This book] attempts to fill this gap… people are hungering for a truly comforting answer when faced with suffering, tragedy, and death. I know this from personal experience. I have lost my father, my mother, my sister, and (hardest of all) my daughter… At the same time our heart needs comfort, our head needs answers... this work attempts to be CORRECT. We are not engaging in mere intellectual exercises; we are searching for truth… Finally, this book seeks to be COMFORTING. We are not interested only in intellectual solutions but in practical ones as well.”
He notes, “every thinking Christian is faced with this: If everything God made was good, then how can evil be real? Or, if evil is real, then how can God not have created it?... The reply is found in what is meant by a ‘thing’ (substance)… we need not agree that there are evil ‘things.’ How then can evil be real but not a thing?.. Evil is a real lack, privation, or corruption of a good thing. That is, evil does not exist in itself: evil exists only in a thing or substance---and all things God made are good… Evil is real---a real lack, a real corruption. But it is not a real thing.” (Pg. 18-19)
He explains, “God’s role in the world is similar to that of a book’s ‘author.’ He wrote the whole story in advance… Every character---whether for good or evil---acts freely… So while the author of the villain’s actions, the villain is making them freely and is responsible for them… God does not promote or perform the evil actions of his creatures; He merely permits them within the overall story of human history, which He has authored in advance and which moves forward under His sovereign direction… In short, God is the ‘author’ of everything that happens in the indirect and ultimate sense; He is not the immediate cause of evil actions… He permits them and controls the course of history so that it accomplishes His ultimate purposes.” (Pg. 24)
He states, “there still is a serious issue with the revised argument from evil’s persistence… the third premise: ‘Evil is not defeated.’ It has no time indicator on it… Evil may yet be defeated in the future. It simply does not follow that because God has not yet defeated evil He never will… Give Him a chance. Listen to the whole thing. History is not over. Let’s wait to hear ‘the rest of the story.’” (Pg. 40)
He points out, “that we don’t KNOW a good reason for some evil does not mean that there is no good purpose for it. There are many things we don’t know. And there are many things we once did not know but now do know. So it should be expected that in the future we will discover good purposes for things for which we do not know a good purpose… This gives us reasonable confidence that in the future we will be able to explain good purposes for evils we cannot now explain.” (Pg. 47)
He argues, “A world with even one person in hell would not be the best world CONCEIVABLE. But granting that creatures are truly free, a world with an untold number of people in hell may be the best world ACNIEVABLE. This is because not everything logically possible is actually attainable… it is possible that the amount of people in heaven, even though it is less than all persons who ever lived, is the highest number of people God knew He would achieve getting there without violating their free choice.” (Pg. 66-67) He summarizes, “This present world is not the best of all possible worlds, but it is the best of all possible ways to the best of all achievable worlds.” (Pg. 68)
He cautions, “Of course the answers to how long and ow much physical pain and suffering would be necessary to accomplish God’s purposes are known only to God… One thing is certain. A pint-sized human brain is in no position to dictate to the Omniscient One what is too much or too long!... Of this we can be sure, based on the fact that God is both all-good and all-knowing. It won’t be too long, and it won’t be too much.” (Pg. 91-92)
He suggests, "It is noteworthy that nowhere does the Bible describe [Hell] as a ‘torture chamber’ where people are forced against their will to be tormented…. A loving God (1 Jn 4:16) would no torture anyone. This does not mean hell isn’t a place of torment… [But] this torment is SELF-inflicted by one’s will… the door of hell is locked on the inside, its inhabitants condemned to their own freedom. Torment is living with the consequences of our own bad choices… those in hell know that the pain they suffer is self-inflicted.” (Pg. 103-104) He continues, “hell is for the unreformable and unrepentant, the reprobate… It is not for anyone who is reformable. If they WERE, they would still be alive. God in His wisdom and goodness would not allow anyone to go to hell whom He knew would go to heaven if He gave more opportunity.” (Pg. 109)
He also asserts, “By a majestic display of wrath, God recovers the majesty He has been refused. An awful display of punishment in the afterlife will bring to God what people refused to give Him in this life. Those who give God no glory by choice during this life will be forced to give Him glory in the afterlife.” (Pg. 111) He adds, “But hell cannot veto heaven. We can be happy in heaven in the same way we can be happy eating a delicious meal, knowing that others are starving… Since God is not miserable at the thought or sight of hell, neither will we be---even in the case of people we loved in this life.” (Pg. 112) And finally, “nonexistence cannot be said to be a better condition than any kind of existence… Someone may FEEL like being put out of his misery, but it is contradictory to affirm that NONBEING is a better state of BEING.” (Pg. 113)
While some of Geisler’s answers may be a bit on the “Calvinistic” for some, this is a frank, clear, and penetrating statement on this issue, and will be of great interest to anyone studying this subject.
May 19, 2023
An academic, logical/philosophical discussion of the problem of pain from a non-Calvinist perspective, which is helpful and overall compelling intellectually, though at times clunky and not as clear as I'd hope (nor addressing the heart/emotions); there are also several unrelated appendices weirdly tacked on at the end (for book length?).
"That God has not yet defeated evil does not mean He never will. Further, if God is all-good (wants to defeat evil) and all-powerful (can defeat evil), then it is a certainty that evil will one day be defeated. Why? Because God can and wants to do it; therefore, He will. There simply is no logical way to refute this conclusion. In addition, if God is omniscient (all-knowing), then surely He knows whether evil will be defeated. It is highly unlikely, given these attributes, that God would have created such a world as ours if He did not know in advance that evil would be defeated. And this is exactly what the Bible says He will do."
February 16, 2020
i read this at an airbnb because i couldnt figure out how to turn the tv on and all they had was christian books and an incredibly ugly illustrated adaptation of the odyssey. this one was short and i was interested to see if their answers to the problem of evil were more satisfying than those provided by st augustine and dante and the answer to that is "not really", and obviously lacks the benefit of having a 1000ishplus year old worldview. gets into young earth creationism at the end and devotes a chapter to criticism of a christian movie i'd never heard of before. at some point i'd also like to see the problem of star trek v answered in a satisfactory fashion too
February 29, 2020
I have read a few Christian authors and this one seems to have really got me thinking. To be honest this book delves into topics I have long grappled with over the years. I even wrote two short books on them; The Christian Dilemma and The God Dilemma. The problem of evil is pervasive everywhere. It is one every believer contends with. This book does a good job of trying to explain why an all powerful being could allow evil to continue. It is by no means an exhaustive treatise on the subject of evil but it offers consolation enough to the problem of evil. While I wouldn't say the author adequately answers the question of evil but he does provides some justification to the issue.
December 27, 2024
An all-knowing God knows the end of all things. An all-good God wants to bring all things to a good end. And an all-powerful God can bring all things to a good end. Therefore, all things (including suffering we don't understand) will come to a good end— if not in this life, then in the next. In short, only the biblical, theistic God guarantees a good end. Bad things will happen to good people, but a good God has for us a good end, for these bad things will bring about good results: "Our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all" (2 Corinthians 4:17).
April 27, 2025
I have always been interested in the arguments attempting to disprove Gods existence on the basis of evil. Most of the arguments that Geisler provides are solid but are by no means new information to me. That is one of the reasons I give the book only a 3/5 stars overall.
The formatting of the book is quite interesting. Each chapter is dedicated to a specific question of evil in relation to God's existence. Geisler first describes the argument that someone would present about the nature of evil and how it disproves God, and then breaks down their argument step by step to show why their logic may be faulty. I did like the idea about how God did not create evil, but rather created a system in which the best of all possible worlds were made. As a result of making this world and allowing for free will to exist so we can authentically love God, evil can also corrode our world due this free will.
One aspect I did not really agree with was how Geisler believes that everyone receives divine revelation in one way or another even if they have never been presented with the bible. He "proves" this by providing a few anecdotal stories of people in remote places around the world finding Christ, and then uses those stories to argue that everyone will find God in some way if they have desire to. Overall, I believe that this is a good book and quite easy to read and understand I would recommend it to others interesting in the idea.
The formatting of the book is quite interesting. Each chapter is dedicated to a specific question of evil in relation to God's existence. Geisler first describes the argument that someone would present about the nature of evil and how it disproves God, and then breaks down their argument step by step to show why their logic may be faulty. I did like the idea about how God did not create evil, but rather created a system in which the best of all possible worlds were made. As a result of making this world and allowing for free will to exist so we can authentically love God, evil can also corrode our world due this free will.
One aspect I did not really agree with was how Geisler believes that everyone receives divine revelation in one way or another even if they have never been presented with the bible. He "proves" this by providing a few anecdotal stories of people in remote places around the world finding Christ, and then uses those stories to argue that everyone will find God in some way if they have desire to. Overall, I believe that this is a good book and quite easy to read and understand I would recommend it to others interesting in the idea.
September 14, 2024
I had a hard time staying focused on this book. My simple mind just doesn’t like to think so deep! :)
It’s always good to hear the gospel defended against other beliefs. There is a lot of good information in this book.
I didn’t see the need to critique the book “The Shack” It’s a novel, I don’t think the book claims to be the word of God. That was a wasted chapter.
I wouldn’t recommend this book. There are better books on this subject.
It’s always good to hear the gospel defended against other beliefs. There is a lot of good information in this book.
I didn’t see the need to critique the book “The Shack” It’s a novel, I don’t think the book claims to be the word of God. That was a wasted chapter.
I wouldn’t recommend this book. There are better books on this subject.
April 8, 2025
Sufrí mucho con la muerte de mi hijita, y una amiga teóloga me recomendó este libro sabiendo que el autor también perdió una hjiita. Aunque nunca me cuestioné la existencia de Dios este libro me hizo ver la pregunta natural ante una pérdida tan devastaddora: "si Dios existe, ¿por qué existe el mal?"
Espero volver a leer este libro por disfrute y no por búsqueda de preguntas teólogicas difíciles.
Espero volver a leer este libro por disfrute y no por búsqueda de preguntas teólogicas difíciles.
March 3, 2019
Este o carte logică şi rațională. Autorul oferă răspunsurile corespunzătoare la fațetele problemei răului. Tipicul Geisler poate fi recunoscut şi prin această carte care, reprezintă de fapt o formă de răspuns succintă la problema mult usturătoare.
May 20, 2020
A very handy resource. The info is far from comprehensive, but it should certainly serve in your average objection against God on the basis of evil.
Notes:
Apple
Arguments in helpful syllogistic form.
Evil is not a "thing"
All free actions must be self-caused
Notes:
Apple
Arguments in helpful syllogistic form.
Evil is not a "thing"
All free actions must be self-caused
May 19, 2022
Good stepping stone into the world of apologetics and Christian philosophy. The book admits that it's a fairly surface-level examination of the title question, but it does a great job of getting one's mind turning.
May 23, 2024
Loved this book! Anyone wanting to dig deeper into apologetics must read this.. read each appendix at the end. The critique is warranted..
May 31, 2025
Very few books provide a concise answer to a tough question. This book delivered it.
December 3, 2012
The problem of evil is the most penetrating question Christians face. Why with an all-loving and all-powerful God why is there evil at all? And why such attrocious evil...holocaust, rape, starvation? And why so much evil..repeated war, rwandan genocide?
Geisler is a well known apologist who attempts to tackle this problem that will never go away. All of us had experienced some sort of darkness that is often unexplainable..and we throw our hands up in the air and ask God why? These questions cripple faith..and lead many to abandon any faith at all.
Geisler starts with the original of evil..which he squarely pegs on free individuals who if truly experience free will must have the option to chose evil..and they will.
So Evil exists..but what about the persistence of evil. Why doesn't God defeat evil. Geissler would argue that evil will be defeated...God will make all things new.
Geissler goes on to reason that evil has many purposes. 1) Sometimes we don't know..there are mysteries and paradigms in faith we may never understand . 2) We need to feel pain..Lepers lose their fingers with no sensation of pain when burned. 3) We can't truly comfort others withough suffering pain ourselves.
But couldn't God have avoided many situations by simply eliminating Osama Bin Laden or Adolph Hitler from the beginning? Or Why have a world at all? Geissler argues that even the world in which we live is better morally than no world at all. Futhermore Geissler argues that God did create the "best possible world." Should we not ask why is there so much evil in the world..but why is there so little evil in the world considering the greed, abuse, and hate that exists. How much evil does God prevent that we never see.
Geissler flips the argument of evil making evil necessary. You can't have patience without tribulation, character without adversity, forgiveness without sin, courage without danger.
Moral evils can possibly be explained with poor choices of free will. But physical evil (hurricanes, earthquakes, droughts) can be much harded to reconcile. Geissler argues that even earthquakes are necessary to recycle minerals, floods to nourish soil, winds renew the air. He claims these natural disasters are a necessary part of this world. Of course the question is why doesnt't God intervene? If people are dying of thirst..couldn't He at least give them some rain. Geisler in his weakest moment, punts..."regular miraculous intervention would upset the whole world's moral order" ????
Then on to how to reconcile a loving God with an everlasting eternal hell? Couldn't God reconcile all (universalism)? Couldn't God give some a second chance (purgatory)? Couldn't God just snuff them out (anihilationism)? Geissler argues that Hell exists, is biblical, reasonable (considering an eternal God), and necessary for the Cross to have meaning, to not impugn God's righteousness, and to respect God's love and Sovereigntity. Futhermore he follows C.S. Lewis lead that Hell is a room locked from the inside with those who want no part of God's love..and ultimately have said thanks, but no thanks..thus choosing ultimate separation from God.
What about those that have never heard. Geissler pays nod to the Catholic argument of General Revelation...Romans 1:19-20...God's qualities --his eternal power and divine nature--have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse.
Lastly, Geissler goes through the typical arguments for the existence of God. Cosmological (The Universe has a beginning...there must be a beginner). The Teological arugment (it seems are existence is so scientifically preposterous..advanced planning is required. The Universe was planned by some higher power.) Biological Argument from complexity (DNA, the Krebs Cycle, The Retina..irreducibly complex organs). The moral argument (we all agree with a right (love, charity, kindess) and wrong (rape, abuse, theft)..there must be a moral law giver).
None of these arguments will convert an agnostic or atheist..or give comfort to someone grieving a terrible personal evil (to that comfort, I'm sorry, A hug, I don't know is likely the best response). But I think Geissler believes that the weight of these combined arguments will at least allow someone to have a reasonable faith in God and might tip the scales if favor of Theism over Atheism.
5 stars. Very readable.
Geisler is a well known apologist who attempts to tackle this problem that will never go away. All of us had experienced some sort of darkness that is often unexplainable..and we throw our hands up in the air and ask God why? These questions cripple faith..and lead many to abandon any faith at all.
Geisler starts with the original of evil..which he squarely pegs on free individuals who if truly experience free will must have the option to chose evil..and they will.
So Evil exists..but what about the persistence of evil. Why doesn't God defeat evil. Geissler would argue that evil will be defeated...God will make all things new.
Geissler goes on to reason that evil has many purposes. 1) Sometimes we don't know..there are mysteries and paradigms in faith we may never understand . 2) We need to feel pain..Lepers lose their fingers with no sensation of pain when burned. 3) We can't truly comfort others withough suffering pain ourselves.
But couldn't God have avoided many situations by simply eliminating Osama Bin Laden or Adolph Hitler from the beginning? Or Why have a world at all? Geissler argues that even the world in which we live is better morally than no world at all. Futhermore Geissler argues that God did create the "best possible world." Should we not ask why is there so much evil in the world..but why is there so little evil in the world considering the greed, abuse, and hate that exists. How much evil does God prevent that we never see.
Geissler flips the argument of evil making evil necessary. You can't have patience without tribulation, character without adversity, forgiveness without sin, courage without danger.
Moral evils can possibly be explained with poor choices of free will. But physical evil (hurricanes, earthquakes, droughts) can be much harded to reconcile. Geissler argues that even earthquakes are necessary to recycle minerals, floods to nourish soil, winds renew the air. He claims these natural disasters are a necessary part of this world. Of course the question is why doesnt't God intervene? If people are dying of thirst..couldn't He at least give them some rain. Geisler in his weakest moment, punts..."regular miraculous intervention would upset the whole world's moral order" ????
Then on to how to reconcile a loving God with an everlasting eternal hell? Couldn't God reconcile all (universalism)? Couldn't God give some a second chance (purgatory)? Couldn't God just snuff them out (anihilationism)? Geissler argues that Hell exists, is biblical, reasonable (considering an eternal God), and necessary for the Cross to have meaning, to not impugn God's righteousness, and to respect God's love and Sovereigntity. Futhermore he follows C.S. Lewis lead that Hell is a room locked from the inside with those who want no part of God's love..and ultimately have said thanks, but no thanks..thus choosing ultimate separation from God.
What about those that have never heard. Geissler pays nod to the Catholic argument of General Revelation...Romans 1:19-20...God's qualities --his eternal power and divine nature--have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse.
Lastly, Geissler goes through the typical arguments for the existence of God. Cosmological (The Universe has a beginning...there must be a beginner). The Teological arugment (it seems are existence is so scientifically preposterous..advanced planning is required. The Universe was planned by some higher power.) Biological Argument from complexity (DNA, the Krebs Cycle, The Retina..irreducibly complex organs). The moral argument (we all agree with a right (love, charity, kindess) and wrong (rape, abuse, theft)..there must be a moral law giver).
None of these arguments will convert an agnostic or atheist..or give comfort to someone grieving a terrible personal evil (to that comfort, I'm sorry, A hug, I don't know is likely the best response). But I think Geissler believes that the weight of these combined arguments will at least allow someone to have a reasonable faith in God and might tip the scales if favor of Theism over Atheism.
5 stars. Very readable.
April 18, 2020
2020 Challenge: A book about Theology
Want to read
April 12, 2025Geisler explains the problem of evil is really a tool for Theism and the existence of God.
January 26, 2012
This book is a good start for Christians, agnostics, atheists, and irreligious alike looking to find a condensed book full of answers for some of the most difficult questions about evil in the world. It gives the reader a quick and more full understanding of many theological arguments that have been debated for centuries. Keep in mind, the existence of God cannot fully be answered in this book, or life for that matter, or God would be eliminating freewill. As C.S. Lewis stated in the Screwtape Letters, "the Irresistible and the Indisputable are the two weapons that the very nature of His (God's) scheme forbids Him to use. Merely to override a human will... would be for Him useless. He cannot ravish. He can only woo." So do not expect to receive all the answers to your life here, just some interesting philosophical ideas that will increase your understanding of evil and how it can fit into a godly worldview. But as a common Buddist proverb states, teachings are like fingers pointing at the moon. If you concentrate on the finger you will never see the moon.
Norman Geisler is the writer and co-writer of a wide range of books explaining and defending a theistic world view. This book focuses on the subject of evil, and how its existence is possible if there is a Christian God. Geisler touches on many different forms of the debate against God due to evil beng present in our world. These include the nature, origin, persistence, purpose, and avoidability of evil. He also goes into detail about how physical evils, like rape and abuse, are possible within the frame work of a Christian worldview. Geisler also explains logical arguments for miracles, the existence of hell, and what happens to people who never hear about Jesus Christ and whether those people are condemned to hell.
Norman Geisler is the writer and co-writer of a wide range of books explaining and defending a theistic world view. This book focuses on the subject of evil, and how its existence is possible if there is a Christian God. Geisler touches on many different forms of the debate against God due to evil beng present in our world. These include the nature, origin, persistence, purpose, and avoidability of evil. He also goes into detail about how physical evils, like rape and abuse, are possible within the frame work of a Christian worldview. Geisler also explains logical arguments for miracles, the existence of hell, and what happens to people who never hear about Jesus Christ and whether those people are condemned to hell.
August 25, 2020
We all have wondered at some point, "If God is good, then why is there evil?"
Norman Geisler sets out to answer this question through a series of chapters that, in my opinion, are a mixed bag. While Geisler employs sound logic and critical thinking towards different arguments that fit underneath the overarching umbrella that is the question the book is titled after, it's a bit clunky in delivery. Geisler quotes C.S. Lewis' work (frequently) in the first handful of chapters that had me wondering, "Why am I not just reading Lewis instead of this?"
I also got the sense that Geisler is not coming at this from a reformed theological perspective. Which, is fine, but the arminian view tends to beg more questions than it does answer. Perhaps I read Geisler wrong but his summation of free-will and how it works seems to imply that we override God's sovereignty, which is impossible.
Overall, I think this is an "okay" resource for someone starting off in apologetics and delving into this particular topic. However, I can't help but believe there are better works out there. Your mileage may vary though.
Edit: The appendices at the end, while certainly interesting, don't really fit with the theme of the book. A critique of the book, The Shack, is really out of place here.
Norman Geisler sets out to answer this question through a series of chapters that, in my opinion, are a mixed bag. While Geisler employs sound logic and critical thinking towards different arguments that fit underneath the overarching umbrella that is the question the book is titled after, it's a bit clunky in delivery. Geisler quotes C.S. Lewis' work (frequently) in the first handful of chapters that had me wondering, "Why am I not just reading Lewis instead of this?"
I also got the sense that Geisler is not coming at this from a reformed theological perspective. Which, is fine, but the arminian view tends to beg more questions than it does answer. Perhaps I read Geisler wrong but his summation of free-will and how it works seems to imply that we override God's sovereignty, which is impossible.
Overall, I think this is an "okay" resource for someone starting off in apologetics and delving into this particular topic. However, I can't help but believe there are better works out there. Your mileage may vary though.
Edit: The appendices at the end, while certainly interesting, don't really fit with the theme of the book. A critique of the book, The Shack, is really out of place here.
February 1, 2016
A very good book for getting right to the point about evil and human existence. It pretty much brings everything right out into the open and philosophises about it. I keep telling myself I hate philosophy - but it sure seems to be the most direct way to discuss deep issues. I prefer more of a Crime Scene Investigation approach, but philosophy has its place.
Hopefully this book will make people think. Although if you're not a Christian I doubt this book will change your mind. I hope it will - but I doubt it.
I do think that every Christian should be forced to read this: then we wouldn't have so much silly confusion about some very basic issues. but since most Christians are too lazy to read their Bibles I don't think they'll be in a hurry to reach for this either - but the two do go together nicely.
I enjoyed the critique of The Shack novel included at the end. He makes some very valid points that should wake up a few believers who don't think issues through fully.
Of course the big question is: Does God let dumb/lazy people into heaven? I hope so.
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