Why does God permit the existence of evil?

1. The Nature of Evil in a Created World

Evil can be described as the absence or corruption of good. In Scripture, all that God created was declared good (cf. Genesis 1:31). Evil, therefore, arises not from God’s creative act but from a distortion of His intended order. Archaeological studies of ancient Near Eastern civilizations, such as the excavation of Jericho’s layers revealing catastrophic destructions, align with episodes of judgment and the consequences of moral decline described in the Old Testament. These findings illustrate that evil actions have real-world effects, confirming the biblical notion that sin leads to tangible societal upheaval (cf. Proverbs 14:34).

2. Human Free Will and Moral Responsibility

Scripture shows that humanity, created in God’s image (Genesis 1:27), holds a unique capacity for moral choices. This freedom allows genuine love and obedience but also introduces the potential to choose evil (cf. Deuteronomy 30:19). By granting free will, God dignifies humanity with responsibility, making moral decisions meaningful. Without the ability to choose, love and virtue would lose true significance. Early manuscripts preserved in the Dead Sea Scrolls confirm the consistent biblical teaching on humanity’s moral agency and the consequences of disobedience (e.g., parallels in the Scroll of Isaiah with the canonical text). The consistency of these texts underscores that free will has always been integral to humanity’s story.

3. The Entrance of Evil and the Fall

Genesis 3 details how evil entered human experience. Adam and Eve’s choice to rebel against God’s command introduced sin, leading to fractured relationships—with God, with each other, and with creation. As Genesis 3:6 notes: “The woman saw that the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and that it was desirable for obtaining wisdom.” This act of reaching for autonomy apart from God opened the door to suffering, conflict, and mortality (Romans 5:12). Geological and fossil evidence, interpreted in alignment with a young-earth framework, showcases a world now marked by decay and catastrophe. This aligns with the biblical presentation that creation was “subjected to futility” (Romans 8:20–21) because of human sin.

4. God’s Sovereignty and the Existence of Evil

Although evil exists, Scripture consistently affirms God’s sovereignty. He neither authors evil nor takes pleasure in it (James 1:13), yet He orchestrates history in ways that ultimately fulfill His purposes (Ephesians 1:11). Historical accounts such as those found in the recorded histories of Josephus attest to the biblical narrative’s accuracy, including situations where apparent evil—like the oppression of God’s people—led to God’s redemptive outcomes (cf. Genesis 50:20). Thus, God permits evil but remains in control of its ultimate direction, turning human wrongdoing into opportunities for spiritual growth and the revelation of divine mercy.

5. The Refining Process of Suffering

Trials and suffering often refine character. James 1:2–3 exhorts, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers, when you encounter trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.” Suffering can draw people into closer dependence on their Creator. Anecdotal testimonies, including first-hand accounts of individuals who have faced persecution yet emerged with stronger faith, align with this transformative principle. For instance, archaeological findings of early Christian meeting places, sometimes hidden or underground, attest to believers persevering through intense opposition. Their experiences illustrate that evil can serve as a crucible within which faith is purified.

6. The Greater Good and Eternal Perspective

God’s allowance of evil can serve a higher and eternal purpose. Romans 8:28 states, “And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him.” Scripture repeatedly points to a consummation of history in which justice is perfectly administered (Revelation 20:11–15). From an eternal standpoint, the brevity of temporal suffering pales in comparison to the glory that awaits God’s people (2 Corinthians 4:17). In various philosophical arguments for design, the complexity of life—such as the information-rich structure of DNA—demonstrates an ordered, purposeful universe. Even in a world marred by evil, these signs of design highlight that creation is heading toward a purposeful conclusion.

7. The Cross: God’s Ultimate Answer to Evil

Central to Christianity is the event of Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection. Romans 5:8 affirms, “But God proves His love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” The resurrection—an event attested by multiple independent sources, including early creeds documented within a few years of the crucifixion—reveals that evil and death do not have the final word. Dr. Gary Habermas’s extensive research on historical evidences for the resurrection supports its authenticity. God entered into the brokenness of this world, taking sin upon Himself, demonstrating that He is not distant from human suffering but fully engaged. In rising from the dead, Christ broke the power of evil, guaranteeing its ultimate defeat.

8. Hope in Final Justice and Restoration

Beyond the Cross, Scripture looks to a new heaven and new earth (Revelation 21:1), where “there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain” (Revelation 21:4). The existence of evil is allowed for a season, but it will be eradicated in God’s perfect timing. Excavations in regions once home to early Christian communities—many ravaged by wars and persecutions—remind us of the hardships believers endured. Yet they also point to resilience and abiding hope. Such archaeological footprints echo the biblical promise: evil is neither final nor unconquerable.

9. Engaging an Unbelieving World

Responding to the reality of evil involves both a personal and communal dimension. On a personal level, one can seek reconciliation with God, in line with passages like John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son…” Communally, Christians are called to mitigate suffering by feeding the hungry, caring for the oppressed, and praying for healing (cf. Matthew 25:35–40). Documented cases of miraculous healing—from ancient manuscripts to modern testimonies—underscore that while evil persists, divine intervention is still a reality. These acts of mercy and healing evidence God’s desire for humanity’s restoration.

10. Conclusion

The existence of evil underscores the gravity and reality of free will, the refining power of suffering, and the need for humanity’s redemption. Though evil remains a profound mystery, Scripture provides clarity: God neither created evil nor delights in it, but He uses it within His sovereign plan to bring about His greater purposes. Historical records, archaeological findings, and philosophical arguments for design converge to support the biblical narrative that sets God as Creator and ultimate Redeemer. While evil persists in this era, its final defeat is assured by the resurrection of Christ. In the fullness of time, God will restore all things, and evil will be no more.