Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Nature: Evil, in the biblical context, refers to that which is morally wrong, sinful, or wicked. It is the antithesis of good and is often associated with rebellion against God. The concept of evil encompasses both moral evil, which pertains to human actions and intentions, and natural evil, which includes suffering and calamities not directly caused by human actions. Biblical Origin: The origin of evil is traced back to the rebellion of Satan and the subsequent fall of humanity. In Genesis 3, the serpent, identified as Satan in later scriptures, tempts Eve to disobey God, leading to the fall of man. This act introduces sin and evil into the world, resulting in a curse upon creation (Genesis 3:14-19). Human Nature and Evil: The Bible teaches that all humans are born with a sinful nature due to the original sin of Adam and Eve. Romans 3:23 states, "for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." This inherent sinfulness inclines humans towards evil thoughts and actions, as seen in Jeremiah 17:9: "The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?" God's Sovereignty and Evil: While God is not the author of evil, He permits it within His sovereign will. The account of Job illustrates that God allows Satan to test Job, but within limits set by God (Job 1:12). This demonstrates that while evil exists, it is under God's ultimate control and can be used to fulfill His purposes, as seen in Genesis 50:20, where Joseph tells his brothers, "As for you, you intended evil against me, but God intended it for good, to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives." The Problem of Evil: The presence of evil in a world created by a good and omnipotent God is a significant theological issue. The Bible addresses this by emphasizing the fallen state of the world and the promise of redemption through Jesus Christ. Romans 8:20-21 explains that creation was subjected to frustration but will be liberated from its bondage to decay. Evil in the End Times: Scripture prophesies an increase in evil as the end times approach. 2 Timothy 3:1-5 describes a time of moral decay and godlessness. However, the ultimate defeat of evil is assured in Revelation, where Satan and his forces are cast into the lake of fire (Revelation 20:10). Moral Responsibility and Overcoming Evil: Believers are called to resist evil and pursue righteousness. James 4:7 instructs, "Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." Christians are encouraged to overcome evil with good, as stated in Romans 12:21: "Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good." Redemption and the Defeat of Evil: The Bible promises the ultimate eradication of evil through the redemptive work of Jesus Christ. Colossians 2:15 declares that Christ disarmed the powers and authorities, triumphing over them by the cross. The final victory over evil is depicted in Revelation 21:4, where God will wipe away every tear, and there will be no more death, mourning, crying, or pain. Conclusion: The biblical narrative presents evil as a temporary reality in a fallen world, ultimately subject to God's redemptive plan through Jesus Christ. Believers are called to live in the light of this hope, resisting evil and embodying the righteousness of God. Concordance Evil-exactly (1 Occurrence)Ecclesiastes 5:16 Thesaurus Evil-exactly (1 Occurrence)Evil-exactly. Evil-entreated, Evil-exactly. Evilfavoredness . Multi-Version Concordance Evil-exactly (1 Occurrence). ... /e/evil-exactly.htm - 6k Evil-entreated (1 Occurrence) Evilfavoredness Resources How did the knowledge of good and evil make man like God (Genesis 3:22)? | GotQuestions.orgIs God evil? Is the Bible evil? | GotQuestions.org Why did God send the flood when He knew sin would continue after the flood? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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