Episode 151. The Problem of Evil

This episode of the Mama Bear Apologetics podcast explores one of the biggest challenges to the Christian faith: the problem of evil. Amy & Tricia discuss how both children and adults wrestle with suffering, tragedy, and the existence of evil in a world created by a good and all-powerful God. Using scripture, philosophy, practical examples, and personal stories, they explain the difference between natural evil and moral evil, define goodness and evil from a biblical worldview, and demonstrate why evil actually points toward the existence of God rather than disproving Him.

The conversation emphasizes the importance of proactively preparing children to think biblically about suffering before tragedy strikes. The hosts explain that evil is not a created “thing,” but rather a corruption or absence of goodness. They discuss how free will makes love possible but also allows humans to choose evil. The episode also highlights the Christian hope found in Christ’s victory over sin and evil through the cross and resurrection, while awaiting the final restoration of all things.

The hosts provide practical illustrations from parenting, literature, philosophy, and science to help families explain these difficult concepts to children in age-appropriate ways. The episode closes with recommended resources for parents, teens, and children to continue learning about suffering, evil, and God’s goodness.

Main Points Covered

Why Parents Should Discuss Evil Proactively
The Philosophical Problem of Evil
Defining Good and Evil
Natural Evil vs. Moral Evil
The Origin of Evil
Teaching Children About Evil

Resources Mentioned

Case for Faith for Kids — Lee Strobel
10 Questions Every Teen Should Ask and Answer About Christianity — Rebecca McLaughlin
101 Questions About the Bible and Christianity — Kingstone Comics
Living Loud for Teens — Norman Geisler & Joseph Holden
Life-Givers Apologetics — Tricia Scribner
Fox and the Hard Day — JD Camorlinga
Old Yeller — Fred Gipson
Bridge to Terabithia — Jessica Case
Betsy-Tacy series — Maud Hart Lovelace

Scriptures Mentioned

Jeremiah 12:1
Romans 2
Mark 10:18
Luke 18:19
Psalm 104
Romans 5
Genesis 1–3
Ezekiel 28

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