Bestselling author and apologist takes on one of the most difficult questions Christians face. How can an omnipotent, loving God preside over a world filled with evil and suffering? The author's approach is concise, systematic, and clearly communicated, just what Geisler fans have grown to expect. In addition to relying on time-tested solutions to the problem of evil, the author also presents a compelling new way to think about this puzzle.
If God, Why Evil?: A New Way to Think about the Question
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From the Back Cover
Where Did Evil Come From? And Why Doesn't God Do Something About It?
The problem of evil is perhaps the most difficult question the Christian must face. If God is good and all-powerful, why is there suffering in the world? Can't God put an end to murder, rape, and starvation? What about earthquakes, hurricanes, and tsunamis? Why couldn't a perfect God have made a perfect world?
In this concise but thorough book, Dr. Norman Geisler carefully answers these tough questions, using step-by-step explanations and compelling examples. He walks the reader through time-tested answers but also provides a new approach revolving around whether or not this world is the "best of all possible worlds." All this adds up to comforting news for believers: We can rest assured that God is both loving and all-powerful.
Named an Outreach Magazine Resource of the Year
"This is classic Geisler--brilliant, incisive, succinct, convincing. He's one of the great defenders of Christianity."
--Lee Strobel, author, The Case for Christ and The Case for the Real Jesus
"This is one of the clearest, most comprehensive, and penetrating presentations on one of the most difficult problems that thinking Christians face."
--Ravi Zacharias, Author/speaker, President Ravi Zacharias International Ministries
The problem of evil is perhaps the most difficult question the Christian must face. If God is good and all-powerful, why is there suffering in the world? Can't God put an end to murder, rape, and starvation? What about earthquakes, hurricanes, and tsunamis? Why couldn't a perfect God have made a perfect world?
In this concise but thorough book, Dr. Norman Geisler carefully answers these tough questions, using step-by-step explanations and compelling examples. He walks the reader through time-tested answers but also provides a new approach revolving around whether or not this world is the "best of all possible worlds." All this adds up to comforting news for believers: We can rest assured that God is both loving and all-powerful.
Named an Outreach Magazine Resource of the Year
"This is classic Geisler--brilliant, incisive, succinct, convincing. He's one of the great defenders of Christianity."
--Lee Strobel, author, The Case for Christ and The Case for the Real Jesus
"This is one of the clearest, most comprehensive, and penetrating presentations on one of the most difficult problems that thinking Christians face."
--Ravi Zacharias, Author/speaker, President Ravi Zacharias International Ministries
About the Author
Norman L. Geisler (PhD, Loyola University of Chicago) has taught at top evangelical schools for over fifty years and is distinguished professor of apologetics and theology at Veritas Evangelical Seminary in Murrieta, California. He is the author of more than seventy books, including the Baker Encyclopedia of Christian Apologetics.
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More About the Author
Norman Geisler (PhD, Loyola University) is president of Southern Evangelical Seminary and author or coauthor of over fifty books including Decide for Yourself, Baker's Encyclopedia of Apologetics, and When Skeptics Ask.
Customer Reviews
Most Helpful Customer Reviews
15 of 16 people found the following review helpful
Format:Paperback|Amazon Verified Purchase
Dr. Geisler continues to show his accessibility as a scholar by providing another work that appeals to many different audiences. The budding apologist could use this as an introduction to the issue of evil. The church teacher or lay reader benefits from having a solid and accessible discussion of the topic from beginning to end. The scholar can have a quick read to refresh the logical aspects behind the apparent problem of evil. Dr. Geisler states that the greatest and most frequent criticism of Christianity is the Problem of Evil. This work is the culmination of his years of thought and writing on the subject in an attempt to bring a concise yet thorough work to the public on this issue.
Dr. Geisler's focus in dealing with the Problem of Evil is to use various logical premises to come to a conclusion. What he does is breaks the logical argument into small concepts that can each either build upon each other into a theory, belief or fact, or they can be individually critiqued to find out where the logic is flawed. He starts off with the skeptic's logical concepts, like:
.....1) God created all things.
.....2) Evil is something.
.....3) Therefore, God created evil.
From here, Dr. Geisler takes each of the three premises to see if the argument is sound or if it contains flaws. Dr. Geisler's argument in this case is that evil is not a created item, but a corruption of the good God created. He discusses how this logical flow breaks down in premise two, and should be rephrased to say:
.....1) God created all things.
.....2) Evil is not a thing.
.....3) Hence, God did not create evil.
This does not end the discussion on this issue, as there are critiques of his stance such as 'why didn't God make incorruptible things?' and other such criticisms. Dr. Geisler patiently and concisely deals with each argument and criticism to draw the reader to understand the issues behind the Problem of Evil.
The repeated concept with this book is "concise," but this should not be confused with limited, introductory or lack of depth. Dr. Geilser's work covers a significant amount of ground in sufficient detail without delving into intricate philosophical discussions like those found in other similar works. This makes the work accessible, while still covering the topic in enough detail to warrant reviewing this book. Rather than assuming this short 122 pages (not including 45 pages of appendices) is too simple, I saw this text as following Einstein's premise that "If you can't explain it simply, you don't understand it well enough." Dr. Geilser simply proves he knows the ins-and-outs of this issue.
There are three appendices that round out the book that are loosely related to the content of the preceding text.
Appendix 1. Animal Death Before Adam. This discussion introduces possible theories behind the dinosaurs and where they fit into Creation He discusses both Young Earth and Old Earth theories. This is a basic introduction of the topic.
Appendix 2. Evidence for the Existence of God. This is also an introductory work that provides a basic summary of Classical apologetics arguments for God. For more detail on Dr. Geisler's writing on this, see "I Don't Have Enough Faith to be an Atheist" by Drs. Geisler and Turek.
Appendix 3. A Critique of the Shack. At first, I thought this was really out of place. So, I read The Shack... I see why Dr. Geisler included it, as popular culture not familiar with the Bible could arrive at several issues regarding the Problem of Evil or the attributes of God from reading the Shack. Most of Dr. Geisler's issues with The Shack are well founded. In short, he provides 14 items of critique and points to a more indepth article he wrote on the issue that can be found on his website.
Whether you're well versed in the Problem of Evil, an interested but unfamiliar reader, or in between, Dr. Geisler's new work on the subject serves as a great addition to your library. It provides solid answers from logic regarding the Problem of Evil.
Dr. Geisler's focus in dealing with the Problem of Evil is to use various logical premises to come to a conclusion. What he does is breaks the logical argument into small concepts that can each either build upon each other into a theory, belief or fact, or they can be individually critiqued to find out where the logic is flawed. He starts off with the skeptic's logical concepts, like:
.....1) God created all things.
.....2) Evil is something.
.....3) Therefore, God created evil.
From here, Dr. Geisler takes each of the three premises to see if the argument is sound or if it contains flaws. Dr. Geisler's argument in this case is that evil is not a created item, but a corruption of the good God created. He discusses how this logical flow breaks down in premise two, and should be rephrased to say:
.....1) God created all things.
.....2) Evil is not a thing.
.....3) Hence, God did not create evil.
This does not end the discussion on this issue, as there are critiques of his stance such as 'why didn't God make incorruptible things?' and other such criticisms. Dr. Geisler patiently and concisely deals with each argument and criticism to draw the reader to understand the issues behind the Problem of Evil.
The repeated concept with this book is "concise," but this should not be confused with limited, introductory or lack of depth. Dr. Geilser's work covers a significant amount of ground in sufficient detail without delving into intricate philosophical discussions like those found in other similar works. This makes the work accessible, while still covering the topic in enough detail to warrant reviewing this book. Rather than assuming this short 122 pages (not including 45 pages of appendices) is too simple, I saw this text as following Einstein's premise that "If you can't explain it simply, you don't understand it well enough." Dr. Geilser simply proves he knows the ins-and-outs of this issue.
There are three appendices that round out the book that are loosely related to the content of the preceding text.
Appendix 1. Animal Death Before Adam. This discussion introduces possible theories behind the dinosaurs and where they fit into Creation He discusses both Young Earth and Old Earth theories. This is a basic introduction of the topic.
Appendix 2. Evidence for the Existence of God. This is also an introductory work that provides a basic summary of Classical apologetics arguments for God. For more detail on Dr. Geisler's writing on this, see "I Don't Have Enough Faith to be an Atheist" by Drs. Geisler and Turek.
Appendix 3. A Critique of the Shack. At first, I thought this was really out of place. So, I read The Shack... I see why Dr. Geisler included it, as popular culture not familiar with the Bible could arrive at several issues regarding the Problem of Evil or the attributes of God from reading the Shack. Most of Dr. Geisler's issues with The Shack are well founded. In short, he provides 14 items of critique and points to a more indepth article he wrote on the issue that can be found on his website.
Whether you're well versed in the Problem of Evil, an interested but unfamiliar reader, or in between, Dr. Geisler's new work on the subject serves as a great addition to your library. It provides solid answers from logic regarding the Problem of Evil.
8 of 8 people found the following review helpful
By Amy Deardon
Format:Paperback
Geisler's book would not necessarily be the most comforting to read for those who are concurrently going through an emotionally trying time, since it maintains an objective presentation for the problem of evil. At the same time, it WOULD be helpful for those who wish to puzzle through these issues, and gives credible reasons for believing in God despite the existence of evil.
The ten chapters with topics that Geisler addresses are:
Three Views on Evil
The Nature of Evil
The Origin of Evil
The Persistence of Evil
The Purpose of Evil
The Avoidability of Evil
The Problem of Physical Evil
Miracles and Evil
The Problem of Eternal Evil (Hell)
What About Those Who Have Never Heard?
Geisler presents arguments for the existence of the Christian God: a separate being from his creation, who is all-knowing, all-loving, all-just, and all-powerful. He asks blunt questions: if this evil type of situation exists, how can God be there also?
Geisler sets up the arguments against God in a syllogistic format, stating the premises that lead to disbelieving that God exists, and then discusses why some of the premises may be faulty.
His arguments are elegant, with information that takes time to digest. Even so, the book is only about 175 pages, certainly not over-intimidating. Geisler also includes three appendices: Animal death before Adam, Evidence for the existence of God, and a Critique of The Shack, that are provocative.
As a Christian I found Geisler's arguments compelling. At the same time, while talking with atheists I find that straight logic is usually not sufficient to "prove" God's existence, although God's existence can be strongly supported. (Strongly supported enough that as a scientist and skeptic, I came to faith through studying the historic circumstances surrounding the death of Jesus). There is an emotional resistance to the Christian God's existence, probably because accepting His existence means bowing to Him as Lord, something many are reluctant to do.
Geisler's book is a concise and smart rendering of Christian arguments to answer the question: If God exists, why is there evil in the world? I wish I could have given this book more than five stars. Highly recommended.
I am grateful to Bethany House for providing a copy of this book for me to review. I was not bound to give a positive review, simply a review.
The ten chapters with topics that Geisler addresses are:
Three Views on Evil
The Nature of Evil
The Origin of Evil
The Persistence of Evil
The Purpose of Evil
The Avoidability of Evil
The Problem of Physical Evil
Miracles and Evil
The Problem of Eternal Evil (Hell)
What About Those Who Have Never Heard?
Geisler presents arguments for the existence of the Christian God: a separate being from his creation, who is all-knowing, all-loving, all-just, and all-powerful. He asks blunt questions: if this evil type of situation exists, how can God be there also?
Geisler sets up the arguments against God in a syllogistic format, stating the premises that lead to disbelieving that God exists, and then discusses why some of the premises may be faulty.
His arguments are elegant, with information that takes time to digest. Even so, the book is only about 175 pages, certainly not over-intimidating. Geisler also includes three appendices: Animal death before Adam, Evidence for the existence of God, and a Critique of The Shack, that are provocative.
As a Christian I found Geisler's arguments compelling. At the same time, while talking with atheists I find that straight logic is usually not sufficient to "prove" God's existence, although God's existence can be strongly supported. (Strongly supported enough that as a scientist and skeptic, I came to faith through studying the historic circumstances surrounding the death of Jesus). There is an emotional resistance to the Christian God's existence, probably because accepting His existence means bowing to Him as Lord, something many are reluctant to do.
Geisler's book is a concise and smart rendering of Christian arguments to answer the question: If God exists, why is there evil in the world? I wish I could have given this book more than five stars. Highly recommended.
I am grateful to Bethany House for providing a copy of this book for me to review. I was not bound to give a positive review, simply a review.
6 of 7 people found the following review helpful
Format:Paperback
This is a very clearly presented book set out to defend the theistic perspective of God, evil and the nature of suffering. It uses simple language that can be readily understood by the layperson. It will be helpful especially those without much training in philosophy or theology. Using step by step 'handrails' to guide the reader through the arguments and counter-arguments, one can easily navigate the flow of arguments. In ten chapters, Geisler deals with the different views of evil, the nature, origin, persistence, purpose, miracles, and many of the common difficult challenges facing people who are genuinely concerned about evil and suffering in this world. Each chapter contains brief examples for quick appreciation.
The last three appendices comprise of materials that cover animal deaths, proving the existence of God, and a book critique of The Shack. They do not seem to fit into the overall flow of the book. Yet, they are somewhat relevant to the topic of suffering. They are helpful chapters, but I feel are not necessary toward the overall thesis of the book. What surprises me is the way Geisler squeezed into the appendices a sharp critique of Paul Young's The Shack. A little uncalled for, I thought.
I am amazed at how the author treats the topic sensitively and clearly, without sacrificing the breadth of coverage. My main critique is that Geisler fails to include more of the alternative arguments from the standpoint of the questioner. For example, in arguing the Best Possible World theory, what about the arguments against this? At times, I feel like Geisler is over-enthusiastic to present his side of the story, that he understates the 'other point of view.' I believe Geisler is right on many fronts. Yet, I get the feeling that this book will appeal more to the converted, rather than one that will convince the unbeliever. Having said that, I believe God is perfectly capable of defending Himself. I prefer to see this book as a readable introductory resource for new students in the field of theodicy.
So what is exactly 'new' in this book's re-thinking of the question of evil? If there is anything particularly new, it will be the manner in which the author lays out the problem, identifies the flaws in the premises, and to modify the way the question needs to be re-stated. Nevertheless, this book is a valuable resource to introduce the dilemma of evil and suffering, to lay out the Christian position, and as God enables, to encourage those going through difficult periods of their lives. This book is an excellent choice for teaching an appreciation-level layman class on apologetics and suffering.
conrade
"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group".
The last three appendices comprise of materials that cover animal deaths, proving the existence of God, and a book critique of The Shack. They do not seem to fit into the overall flow of the book. Yet, they are somewhat relevant to the topic of suffering. They are helpful chapters, but I feel are not necessary toward the overall thesis of the book. What surprises me is the way Geisler squeezed into the appendices a sharp critique of Paul Young's The Shack. A little uncalled for, I thought.
I am amazed at how the author treats the topic sensitively and clearly, without sacrificing the breadth of coverage. My main critique is that Geisler fails to include more of the alternative arguments from the standpoint of the questioner. For example, in arguing the Best Possible World theory, what about the arguments against this? At times, I feel like Geisler is over-enthusiastic to present his side of the story, that he understates the 'other point of view.' I believe Geisler is right on many fronts. Yet, I get the feeling that this book will appeal more to the converted, rather than one that will convince the unbeliever. Having said that, I believe God is perfectly capable of defending Himself. I prefer to see this book as a readable introductory resource for new students in the field of theodicy.
So what is exactly 'new' in this book's re-thinking of the question of evil? If there is anything particularly new, it will be the manner in which the author lays out the problem, identifies the flaws in the premises, and to modify the way the question needs to be re-stated. Nevertheless, this book is a valuable resource to introduce the dilemma of evil and suffering, to lay out the Christian position, and as God enables, to encourage those going through difficult periods of their lives. This book is an excellent choice for teaching an appreciation-level layman class on apologetics and suffering.
conrade
"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group".
Most Recent Customer Reviews
4.0 out of 5 stars
makes you think
read slowly and thoughtfully. Really need to concentrate reading this because I believe unless you have faith in God this can confuse you
Published 2 months ago by sks
5.0 out of 5 stars
My reaction to "If God, Why Evil?"
This is NOT a quick read. It is much deeper than I realized when I ordered it. But I
am just taking my time and absorbing what I read. Read more
am just taking my time and absorbing what I read. Read more
Published 2 months ago by Church Librarian
5.0 out of 5 stars
If God , why evil
Great book about of our world and the reason why we have to not blame God because everybody has choices that effect others.
Published 4 months ago by Michael E. Moerbe
3.0 out of 5 stars
The Greater Good Theodicy Seems Inherently Flawed
People have always wrestled with the amount of evil that plagues our world, especially in light of the idea of a loving and perfect God governing the universe. Read more
Published 8 months ago by Tom Farr
3.0 out of 5 stars
As One Source among Others, Why Not?
IF GOD, WHY EVIL?: A NEW WAY TO THINK ABOUT THE QUESTION. Norman L. Geisler. Minneapolis: Bethany House Publishers, 2011. Pp. 173. $14.99, 9780764208126. Read more
Published 11 months ago by Steven B. Sherman
4.0 out of 5 stars
Concise and to the point treatment of evil
If God, Why Evil? (2011) is a short treatise on evil by Norman Geisler, one of the leading apologetics authors active today. Geisler has a way of writing in a straightforward way. Read more
Published 13 months ago by Jason Kanz
5.0 out of 5 stars
Very Thorough and Systematic
Norman Geisler takes a very systematic approach to a very broad and generalized question by breaking down the topic of evil into all its facets, such as nature, origin, and... Read more
Published 21 months ago by Jacob's Beloved
3.0 out of 5 stars
Pretty Good Theodicy
If God, Why Evil? is a succinct theodicy aimed at a general audience of seemingly Christian believers. Read more
Published on May 14, 2011 by Nick Norelli
4.0 out of 5 stars
Worth Your Time
Norman Geisler's When Skeptics Ask was one of my first introductions to the problem of evil. What peaked my curiosity was the subtitle: "A New Way to Think About the Question. Read more
Published on May 4, 2011 by Mikel Del Rosario
5.0 out of 5 stars
If God, Why Evil?
If you have struggled with the questions: If God, why suffering? If God, why evil? If God, why death? If God, why hate? Then this is the book for you. Read more
Published on May 3, 2011 by Lori H. Poppinga
