Evil and Satan
In the gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John 鈥 the first four books of the New TestamentThe second part of the Christian Bible containing 27 books consisting of four types of literature: letters (epistles), gospels, history and prophecy.) there is reference to a devil.
Its name is 鈥楽补迟补苍鈥, which means 鈥榚苍别尘测鈥.
In the 11th Century, St Thomas AquinasA Christian monk and theologian (1225 - 1274). His ideas, such as the just war theory, have had a great influence on modern philosophy. said that Satan was an angel who had rebelled against God.
Aquinas claimed that Satan had been one of the highest angels who had become proud and led other angels in the rebellion.
As a result, Satan and the other angels were thrown out of Heaven and Satan has opposed God ever since.
What does Christianity teach about evil and suffering?
Evil and suffering could make Christians question God鈥檚 omnipotence The all-powerful, almighty and unlimited nature of God., omnibenevolenceAll-loving and infinitely good 鈥 a characteristic often attributed to God., or His omniscienceThe all-knowing nature of God.. For example:
- If God was all-powerful, wouldn鈥檛 He stop natural disasters?
- If God was all-loving, wouldn鈥檛 He stop suffering?
- If God was all-knowing, wouldn鈥檛 He know that people were going to do something evil and stop them?
Christians may give one or more of the following answers.
God has given people free willThe ability to make choices (particularly moral choices) voluntarily and independently. The belief that nothing is predetermined.. He has shown people how they should obey the Ten CommandmentsThe list of rules, revealed by God to Moses, found in the Old Testament books of Exodus and Deuteronomy. Also known as the Decalogue. and follow Jesus鈥 life and teaching. It is then up to human beings to decide whether or not to follow God鈥檚 instructions.
God has a plan for people鈥檚 lives that they may not always understand. This may include evil and suffering, but Christians should trust and have faith in God鈥檚 plan.
God wants people to follow the example of Jesus and help those who are suffering. Christians also pray for those who suffer and try to help them.
Evil and suffering in this life is a preparation for Heaven. Evil and suffering give humans a chance to become better people and improve their souls. Christians believe that God will reward them in Heaven.