In Plain Sight: The Problem of Evil (Part 1)

Over the next two episodes of Stand Firm in Dark Waters, we tackle the problem of evil. In Part One of “In Plain Sight: The Problem of Evil,” we face the question that won’t stay theoretical: if God is good, all‑powerful, and all‑knowing, why does evil exist—and why does it so often feel like it’s winning? We start with philosophical clarity by defining evil, distinguishing moral evil (human cruelty) from natural evil (disease and disaster), and separating the logical, evidential, and deeply personal arguments.

Then, we enter the skeptical case through Mackie’s inconsistent triad, Hume’s dilemma, and modern arguments about gratuitous suffering—pain that appears pointless and undeserved. Along the way, we expose a hidden assumption behind many objections: If God has morally sufficient reasons, we should be able to see them.

Part One lays the philosophical groundwork for the problem of evil, whereas Part Two shifts from philosophy to Scripture to trace evil’s origin and God’s answer.