Why God Allows Evil and Death in the World

When Jesus’ friend Lazarus died (John 11), Jesus cried. Even though He was the Son of God and could raise His friend (Lazarus) back to life, Our Lord Jesus was always fully aware of the agony we humans faced (and still face) due to death and evil.

So, why is it that evil and death are allowed in the world? You see, ages ago, after losing a war between the angels of God, a group of fallen angels-commanded by Satan-departed heaven (Jude 6) and made earth their kingdom. They still exist to date and have only one purpose-to kill and destroy. But their evil provides an illuminating contrast to the love, mercy, and grace of God, who allows people the freedom to choose between good and evil.

“And I remind you of the angels who did not stay within the limits of authority God gave them but left the place where they belonged. God has kept them securely chained in prisons of darkness, waiting for the great day of judgment” (Jude 1:6 NLT).

As a by-product of buying into the lie of Satan, Adam and Eve disobeyed God in the Garden of Eden and were separated from Him. (I am certain you know the story by heart.) This incident also set in full motion the life cycle, which ends in death and causes everyone to be born, “spiritually dead.”

Jesus’ angry words to the Pharisees (John 8:44) show the dismal result of spiritual death: “You are the children of your father the devil, and you love to do the things he does. He was a murderer from the beginning. He has always hated the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, it is consistent with his character; for he is a liar and the father of lies.”

But there is “good news”: Our Savior Jesus’ death on the cross provides the perfect antidote for spiritual death. Although all of us eventually will die, a second life-eternal life-will begin.

“And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them” (Romans 8:28 NLT).

So although evil and death continue, God can and does use any situation for good (Romans 8:28). God loves you and wants to work out His purposes for your life. Why not let Him? Why not begin right now?

May almighty God bless you most lovingly,

Tony

Tony Marino
Founder, Executive Publisher
Christian Times Online
http://www.ChristianTimesNewsletter.com

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