When we hear of earthquakes, school shootings, wars and other tragedies the question is always asked, "Where was God?" People wonder why a loving and caring God would allow this to happen.
Talking Points:
- We live in a fallen world. The world is full of disaster and hardship. That is because this world has turned away from God and become full of sin. Because of this we live in a broken world full of broken people. This all began with the first sin in Genesis 3.
- “Theodicy” is the idea that God has a reason for tragedies. God has authority over all things that happen, good or bad. This idea can be hard to swallow, especially when we are faced with things like natural disaster, but we have to understand that God has a purpose. He is all-powerful.
- God wants to reconcile us with him. This is God’s ultimate goal. He uses many different avenues to achieve this goal, natural disasters being one of them. He wants us to see that he is the almighty God and that we should place our trust in him.
Discussion:
- Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- What are some of the greatest tragedies in your generation? In previous generations?
- Explain the concept of “theodicy”.
- Have you ever wrestled with the idea that tragedies happen even though God exists? How have you tried to explain it in your own mind?
- Read Job 38. How did God answer Job’s question about why he allowed suffering in Job’s life? Do you think that response is valid? Explain.
- Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?
This topic is adapted from the Manna Media YouTube channel.
