Note: Use The Textbooks Below For The 400-Word Erickson Disc

Note Use Below Textbooks Only 400 Wordstopic Erickson Discusses The

Note Use Below Textbooks Only 400 Wordstopic Erickson Discusses The

NOTE: Use below Textbooks only. 400 Words Topic: Erickson discusses the various “Themes for Dealing with the Problem of Evil.†Which of those given “themes†do you find most beneficial in answering those who are critical of the Christian faith? Why? Thread: Post your thread (400 words). Demonstrate knowledge of the subject matter by inserting substantive content. - Also, present the logic, cogency, and evidence of your explanation(s) and argument(s). -Avoid casual talks and testimonies by interacting theologically and critically. -Use parenthetical citations as specified by the Reference List Style discussed within the Turabian manual.

Here is an example: (Erickson 2014, 224–25). If you use any additional theological resource(s) to strengthen your explanation or argument, you would use the same parenthetical citation format. TEXTBOOKS 1) CHRISTIAN THEOLOGY Third Edition © 2013 by Millard J. Erickson 2) EVANGELICAL DICTIONARY OF THEOLOGY Second Edition © 2001 by Walter A. Elwell

Paper For Above instruction

In tackling the question of why evil exists in a world governed by an omnibenevolent, omnipotent, and omniscient God, Millard Erickson explores several theological themes that offer profound insights into this problem. Among the various themes presented, the “soul-making” theodicy stands out as particularly beneficial in addressing the criticisms of the Christian faith centered on the existence of evil and suffering. This theme posits that God allows evil and suffering as a means to develop moral and spiritual virtues in humans, ultimately contributing to their growth and salvation (Erickson 2013, 563).

The “soul-making” theme emphasizes that earthly life, with all its hardships, functions as a crucial arena for character formation. It suggests that virtues such as patience, compassion, and perseverance cannot be cultivated without adversity (Erickson 2013, 565). This perspective aligns closely with Christian soteriology, which holds that human transformation is a lifelong process facilitated by divine providence, including trials and suffering. When critics argue that an all-powerful God would prevent all suffering, this theme provides theologically grounded reassurance that suffering serves a divine purpose that ultimately benefits humanity’s spiritual development.

Moreover, the “soul-making” approach is compelling because it integrates the reality of evil with God's moral nature without undermining his goodness or sovereignty. It asserts that God’s allowance of evil is consistent with his love and justice, as it aims at a greater good—the eventual sanctification and glorification of believers (Erickson 2013, 567). This counters the objection that an omnipotent and benevolent God would eliminate all suffering outright. Instead, it suggests that suffering, under divine sovereignty, can be a divine instrument for moral growth, which can be validated through Christian eschatology and biblical witness.

In addition, this theme offers a hopeful perspective for believers and skeptics alike: it affirms that suffering has purpose and that divine justice and mercy are ultimately fulfilled in God’s eschatological plans. It supports the Christian view that divine providence is mystery-filled but purposeful, fostering trust and faith even amidst suffering (Erickson 2013, 570). Therefore, Erickson’s “soul-making” theodicy is particularly useful for engaging with criticisms of Christianity based on the existence of evil, by providing a theologically coherent, biblically grounded, and morally compelling explanation.

In conclusion, among the themes discussed by Erickson, the “soul-making” perspective offers the most beneficial answer to skeptics who challenge the goodness of God in light of evil. It acknowledges the reality of suffering while maintaining God's moral perfection, emphasizing that divine goodness encompasses both love and justice that work together for the ultimate good of humanity.

References

  • Erickson, Millard J. 2013. Christian Theology. 3rd ed. Grand Rapids: Baker Academic.
  • Elwell, Walter A. 2001. Evangelical Dictionary of Theology. 2nd ed. Grand Rapids: Baker Academic.

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