We finish this series with a major philosophical problem to Christianity - the problem of evil and suffering. Many philosophers admit that this issue is the most troubling problem with Christianity. How can an all-good and all-powerful God allow evil and suffering in the world?
A Christian worldview and framework provides insight and understanding to this issue like secularism and other religions cannot. Ultimately this issue is not merely philosophical, but personal. Everyone will suffer to one degree or another, but for those who love God suffering isn't just overcome-able, but is used for ultimate good.
Why Do Bad Things Happen To Good People?
October 16, 2022 • Stephen Putbrese • Romans 8:18–32
More from
Questioning Christianity
Why Do I Even Need God?
September 11, 2022 • Stephen Putbrese • Acts 17:16–27
We live in an increasingly post-Christian society. While Christianity once held the majority position in our culture, it no longer does and many people find aspects of it problematic. Although there are many tough questions to ask about Christianity, we have to start with the most basic - why do I even need God? In this address to a very intellectual culture in Athens, the apostle Paul will argue that we all know we need God by our beliefs and actions. Further, unlike every other object of worship, only the God of the Bible is capable of meeting our true spiritual need.
What's So Special About Jesus?
September 18, 2022 • Stephen Putbrese • Acts 17:22–34
As we finish Paul's address at Athens in Acts 17, we ask the question, "What's so special about Jesus?" The claims of Christianity are inevitably exclusive - meaning Jesus is the only way back to God. Isn't that unfair and too restrictive? Who's to say that only those who know Jesus know God? This teaching will show why the exclusivity of Jesus is actually good and necessary. Further, only Jesus, and specifically his resurrection, can satisfy the deepest longings of the human heart.
Isn't God a Cosmic Killjoy?
September 25, 2022 • Stephen Putbrese • John 2:1–11
It's commonly understood that to adopt religion simultaneously means to give up fun. In other words, God is a cosmic killjoy and obeying him would mean to sacrifice things that would bring enjoyment. In Jesus, nothing could be further from the truth. Far from killing joy, only in Jesus can true fun and joy be found. This teaching will explore that reality as Jesus demonstrates it by turning water into wine.