Two Views of Suffering: Atheist Existentialism and Christianity | SHARPER IRON

Bible, Theology & Philosophy

Douglas Groothuis

Suffering

Suffering is not the starting point for the Christian worldview, but, nevertheless, it throbs in its philosophical marrow. Blood is shed everywhere, but that blood is not without a voice. Humans did not just appear without forethought or purpose, but are integral to a divine plan. But this plan is fully made known—and often largely obscured—to erring mortals.

Discussion

… not returning evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary blessing, knowing that you were called to this, that you may inherit a blessing.

(NKJV, 1 Peter 3:9)