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Understanding the Silence of God Amid Evil
The question of where God is in a world filled with suffering and evil is perhaps one of the most profound challenges facing believers today. This poignant inquiry is at the heart of Collin Hansen's new book, Where Is God in a World with So Much Evil? In a recent podcast episode from The Gospel Coalition, Hansen engages in a deep conversation about this complex topic, shedding light on the historical tragedies that shape our understanding of God's presence—or apparent absence—during painful times.
Historical Reflections on Morality and Evil
Hansen draws significantly from his background in European history, particularly focusing on moral declines seen after traumatic events such as the Holocaust. He suggests that the legacy of these tragedies has transformed our moral compass, often making figures like Hitler a reference point in discussions about evil. This shift leads people to evaluate their own morality in relation to these historical extremes, rather than seeking a higher standard of goodness as exemplified by Jesus Christ.
Engaging with Suffering through Biblical Characters
The conversations also explore the biblical figures, like Job and the Psalms’ authors, who confronted suffering through honest dialogue with God. Hansen emphasizes that God welcomes our questions and our cries for justice. Like Jesus on the cross, whose mournful question, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" resonates deeply through the ages, believers are reminded that questioning God is a part of faith, not a deviation from it.
Making Sense of God’s Presence
In the podcast, Hansen articulates the need for believers to grasp that while we may search for answers in our suffering, sometimes silence is all we receive. Yet, this silence does not equate to God’s absence. Instead, it encourages a reliance on His presence during trials. Psalm 73, for example, illustrates a painful yet hopeful understanding of suffering, where the writer comes to terms with the prosperity of the wicked and the struggles of the righteous by entering the sanctuary of God to gain perspective.
The Role of Cultural Apologetics
Hansen’s notion of cultural apologetics is pivotal as he underscores the importance of understanding historical context in discussions about God and evil. Engaging with literary figures, like Dostoevsky, who tackled the problem of evil thoroughly in his work, Hansen advocates a thorough examination of both cultural and personal experiences. This helps individuals acknowledge that the problem of evil does not negate God’s love or justice. It heightens the need for a relational faith where questions can coexist with trust.
Hope Amid Suffering and Evil
A powerful takeaway from Hansen’s work is the idea that God does not leave us without hope in the midst of despair. Ultimately, he points believers towards the assurance of Christ and the promise of eventual redemption. As Christians grapple with the difficult questions surrounding suffering, reflecting on the biblical narrative and their own experiences can foster a deeper faith that learns to embrace the tensions of grief and trust.
In conclusion, Collin Hansen encourages those who struggle with the reality of evil to understand that their questions are valid. God encourages honest dialogue, and through scripture and community support, believers can find hope and comfort even when immediate answers elude them.
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