Why does God permit illness? Definition and Overview Illness, in the broadest sense, refers to any ailment or condition that disrupts an individual’s physical, mental, or emotional wellbeing. Many wonder why a benevolent and all-powerful Creator would permit such suffering. Scripture provides multiple perspectives on this question, showing that illness arises within the framework of a world that has been marred by the entrance of sin but also governed by divine wisdom and ultimate redemptive purposes. Illness and the Fall of Humanity From the beginning, humanity’s rebellion in Eden (Genesis 3) introduced disharmony into all creation. This fracturing of perfection is integrally linked to the existence of physical and spiritual maladies. Romans 5:12 states: “Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, so also death was passed on to all men, because all sinned.” Illness and all forms of suffering sprang from a world that became subject to decay due to the disobedience of humanity. In this sense, disease is not so much a singular punishment on a specific individual but a shared condition in a cosmos broken by sin. Archaeological discoveries, such as ancient Near Eastern texts and artifacts, show the pervasive human struggle with disease throughout recorded history. They highlight that this struggle is universal—pointing back to a deep-rooted disruption described in Genesis 3. The Dead Sea Scrolls, which include some of the oldest known copies of certain biblical passages, reinforce the consistency of biblical account across centuries, confirming that this theme of a fallen and suffering creation has been preserved faithfully. Personal Responsibility Versus General Brokenness Not every illness directly corresponds to an individual’s personal wrongdoing. Scripture draws careful distinctions between the general brokenness of the world and specific divine chastisement. In John 9:2–3, the disciples ask Jesus whether a man’s blindness stemmed from his or his parents’ sin. Jesus replies, “Neither this man nor his parents sinned, but this happened so that the works of God would be displayed in him.” Through this example, it is clear that illness can be a platform for God’s work rather than merely a punishment. Here, the biblical narrative demonstrates that, while humanity’s fallen state explains why sickness exists in general, not every specific ailment is a direct result of personal sin. In other instances, Scripture indicates that God may use illness as a form of loving discipline or to bring about repentance. The story of King Hezekiah’s sickness in 2 Kings 20:1–6 shows how turning to God in times of dire need can deepen faith, and how God can use such moments to reveal His power and mercy. Purposes and Lessons in Sickness Biblical teaching notes several ways illness might serve deeper spiritual purposes: 1. A Call to Trust: Illness often reminds individuals of their own limitations, prompting reliance on God. In 2 Corinthians 12:7–10, the Apostle Paul mentions a “thorn in the flesh” that he asked God to remove. Instead of immediate healing, Paul was told, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is perfected in weakness.” Illness can cultivate dependence on divine grace. 2. Shaping Character and Perseverance: James 1:2–4 encourages believers to “consider it pure joy…whenever you encounter trials of many kinds,” for these trials produce perseverance and maturity. Health challenges test believers in ways that can strengthen patience, empathy, and compassion. 3. Displaying God’s Power and Mercy: As observed in the Gospels, Jesus frequently used occasions of illness to demonstrate compassion and divine authority by healing the sick (Matthew 9:35). These wonders highlight God’s power over creation and point to the eventual restoration of all things cosmically through Christ’s redemptive work. 4. Eternal Perspective: Scripture repeatedly emphasizes that our earthly suffering is not final. Romans 8:18 declares, “I consider that our present sufferings are not comparable to the glory that will be revealed in us.” Illness can lead people to place their hope in the eternal resurrection promised by the risen Christ. Divine Sovereignty and the Mystery of God’s Will While illness can be partially explained through the lens of a fallen world and God’s redemptive work, some aspects remain beyond full human comprehension. Job’s trials serve as a testament that, at times, suffering may not be tied to any immediate sin or discipline but can test faith in ways we cannot fully understand. Job 42:2–3 records Job saying, “I know that You can do all things and that no plan of Yours can be thwarted. You asked, ‘Who is this who conceals My counsel without knowledge?’ Surely I spoke of things I did not understand, things too wonderful for me to know.” This humble acknowledgment points to God’s transcendence. Even when believers cannot fathom every reason behind sickness, Scripture confirms that God remains both just and loving. Spiritual and Behavioral Responses 1. Prayer and Faith: Scripture encourages consistent prayer for healing (James 5:14–15). God indeed heals miraculously, both in biblical times and in documented modern-day accounts recorded by various Christian communities. 2. Practical Wisdom and Compassion: Believers are urged to show compassion and assist those who are ill (Matthew 25:35–40). Practical methods of alleviating suffering—medical care, counseling, and loving community support—form part of a holistic response aligned with scriptural principles of love and service. 3. Trusting God in All Circumstances: Not every circumstance ends with healing in the way humans might wish (2 Timothy 4:20, where Paul mentions that Trophimus was left sick). God has the ultimate prerogative in His design, and faith includes trusting Him even when the outcome remains unclear. Hope in the Resurrection The biblical narrative emphasizes that illness and death do not have the final word. Christ’s resurrection underscores the ultimate defeat of death (1 Corinthians 15:20–22). That victory extends assuredly to those who trust in Him. In the new heavens and new earth described in Revelation 21:4, “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain.” This future hope provides profound comfort to those experiencing illness. It affirms that current sufferings are temporary and ultimately overshadowed by the glorious promise of complete restoration. Conclusion Illness—in all its forms—enters human life because creation itself has been tainted by sin. Yet Scripture portrays illness not merely as a tragedy but often as a catalyst for spiritual depth, divine intervention, and the showcasing of God’s power. Instances of miraculous healing, both recorded in the Bible and testified throughout history, highlight God’s sovereignty and compassion. At the same time, some illnesses linger, reminding humanity of the world’s broken state and pointing us toward a future hope where all things are made new. In the present, those who encounter sickness can find solace in prayer, communal support, medical wisdom, and an understanding rooted in Scripture’s consistent teaching: God is in control, working for ultimate good, and will one day fully eradicate suffering through the redeeming work of Christ. |
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