Is it a necessary evil?

Definition of “Necessary Evil”

The phrase “necessary evil” raises the question of whether certain harmful or immoral actions are sometimes required for a greater good. Biblical teaching, however, consistently portrays evil as contrary to God’s nature (1 John 1:5) and emphasizes that evil is never God’s desire. While Scripture demonstrates that God can use even human wrongdoing to accomplish His sovereign purposes (Genesis 50:20), this does not equate to calling any sin or wrongdoing “necessary” under divine law.

Biblical Terminology of Good and Evil

The Bible distinguishes good as that which aligns with God’s character and evil as everything opposed to it (Isaiah 5:20). According to the Berean Standard Bible, evil (Hebrew ra’; Greek kakos or ponēros) fundamentally refers to moral corruption or wickedness. Good is anchored in God’s holiness and His revealed will (Leviticus 19:2).

Old Testament Insight

In the Old Testament, evil arises whenever individuals depart from God’s commandments. Israel’s history shows repeated cycles of sin, judgment, repentance, and deliverance. Even in episodes of warfare or divine judgment, the Bible describes evil as a result of moral rebellion, not as a “necessary” policy.

• Genesis 6:5 states: “Then the LORD saw that the wickedness of man was great on the earth…”—clearly identifying evil as the fruit of humanity’s corruption, not something God authored as beneficial.

• Joseph’s statement in Genesis 50:20: “As for you, what you intended against me for evil, God intended for good…” highlights that God can redeem human sin, yet the act itself remains evil.

New Testament Teaching

The New Testament consistently reaffirms that God is categorically opposed to evil and that believers must not engage in sin. Rather than legitimizing wrongdoing, Jesus and the apostles teach holiness and the love of neighbor.

• Romans 12:21 states: “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” This emphasis shows that believers should not adopt evil means for seemingly justifiable ends.

• James 1:13 explains: “…God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He tempt anyone.” Sin is never required by God; the onus is on human beings to resist evil, not to excuse it.

Philosophical and Theological Considerations

The question “Is it a necessary evil?” often emerges in discussions of moral dilemmas, the problem of evil, and whether certain harmful actions can be justified for a greater outcome. From a biblical standpoint:

1. God’s Holiness: Scripture affirms that God is perfectly holy (Isaiah 6:3). A holy God would not decree sin as “necessary.”

2. Human Responsibility: While believers operate in a fallen world, they remain responsible for choosing righteousness (Deuteronomy 30:19).

3. Greater Good Arguments: Biblically, certain hardships or disciplines—like the Cross of Christ—were not evil from God’s perspective but were redemptive acts. Evil, in contrast, is never described as righteous or indispensable.

Historical and Archaeological Corroboration

Archaeological discoveries, such as the Dead Sea Scrolls, verify the consistency of Old Testament manuscripts, illustrating that the biblical message of God’s holiness and the call to forsake evil has remained intact. Secular historical writings and Greek, Roman, and Jewish sources corroborate early Christian belief that Jesus rose from the dead, pointing to a faith rooted in concrete events rather than moral relativism. Such evidence underscores that the Scriptures’ emphasis on God’s morality stands firm across millennia.

Behavioral Perspective

From a behavioral and philosophical angle, people may appear compelled to commit “lesser evils” under extreme situations. Yet Scripture frames these as tragic outcomes of living in a world that is fallen (Romans 8:20–22). The believer’s aim is always to seek God’s guidance and trust His sovereignty rather than conclude that sin is ever mandated.

Practical Implications for Believers

1. Decision-Making: Rather than justifying questionable actions as “necessary,” believers are called to “test and approve what is the will of God” (Romans 12:2).

2. Personal Integrity: Upholding moral standards requires faith in God’s providence—that He can work all things together for good (Romans 8:28) without compromising righteousness.

3. Counseling and Ministry: In counseling or pastoral care situations, it helps to articulate that evil done to us is never “necessary,” nor is it God’s plan. Healing and forgiveness point to God’s redemptive power in spite of sin, not through it.

Broader Apologetic Context

Outside documents, such as historical records from Josephus or Roman historians like Tacitus, reveal a consistent depiction of the Christian movement rooted in moral transformation, not the adoption of questionable moral practices. The existence of creation itself, as highlighted by modern Intelligent Design proponents, showcases a deliberate act of God rather than a random or morally indifferent process. This design perspective supports a moral universe authored by a righteous Creator, in which good is derived from God’s nature, and evil remains alien to His ultimate plan.

Conclusion

From Scripture’s vantage point, evil is never necessary. God can redeem the wrongdoing of humanity to fulfill His purposes, but renewal comes through repentance, faith, and obedience, not by labeling sin as indispensable. By engaging with biblical teaching, historical corroboration, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit, believers discover that victory over evil is grounded in Christ’s redemptive work and God’s unwavering holiness.