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March 04.2025
3 Minutes Read

Where Is God in a World with So Much Evil? Insights from Collin Hansen

Monochrome portrait with overlay reflecting 'Where is God in a world with so much evil?' theme.

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.

Bible Teaching

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04.28.2026

Evangelism Today: How Can We Adapt to New Challenges?

Update Is Evangelism Losing Its Impact? In the recent video, "This Is a Huge Issue for Evangelism" with Glen Scrivener, he highlights a critical point that resonates deeply with many committed Christians today: the current challenges facing evangelism. Glen argues that in our fast-paced world, many people feel disconnected from spiritual truth. This disconnection poses a significant obstacle to sharing the good news of Jesus effectively. As committed Christians, both young and old, we must confront this issue head-on to find new ways of nurturing faith and community.In "This Is a Huge Issue for Evangelism," Glen Scrivener addresses critical challenges in evangelism that prompt deeper analysis and reflection on how we can enhance our efforts. Understanding the Challenge Glen Scrivener articulates a sentiment many are feeling: a growing sense that the message of the Gospel isn't landing in the hearts of seekers as it once did. People are bombarded with distractions ranging from social media to the pressures of daily life, leading to weariness in spiritual matters. This reflects a broader cultural trend where faith can take a back seat, causing families and individuals to drift away from church involvement. For parents and children alike, being less connected to a nurturing community can allow doubt and confusion to settle in. Creating Meaningful Connections Evangelism isn’t just about spreading the message; it is also about building relationships. Young adults and seekers are looking for authentic connections, and as Christians, we can find ways to engage with them. Organizing community events, Bible studies, or even casual group discussions can create spaces where individuals feel valued and heard. For youth and families, these gatherings can foster deeper connections that resonate with their hearts, providing a firm foundation for faith growth. 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04.23.2026

Understanding Ecclesiastes: Ancient Remedies for Today’s Discontent

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