Brothers and sisters in Christ, today we tackle a challenging question: Does God create evil?
This question has puzzled many believers and skeptics alike, often arising when we witness suffering, injustice, and calamity.
We must approach this topic with reverence for God's Word and a desire for His truth.
1. God’s Sovereignty Over All Things
Let us begin by acknowledging God's sovereignty. In Isaiah 45:7, the Lord declares,
"I form the light and create darkness; I make peace and create calamity; I, the Lord, do all these things."
The verse emphasizes God's control over all aspects of existence. However, it is crucial to understand the context and the original language.
The interpretation of Isaiah 45:7 depends on the translation and the context. Let us consider the following translations.
KJV (King James Version):
"I form the light, and create darkness: I make peace, and create evil: I the Lord do all these things."
ESV (English Standard Version):
"I form light and create darkness; I make well-being and create calamity; I am the Lord, who does all these things."
NIV (New International Version):
"I form the light and create darkness, I bring prosperity and create disaster; I, the Lord, do all these things."
The Word "Evil" (Hebrew: ???, ra):
The Hebrew word ra can mean "evil," but it has a broad range of meanings, including calamity, disaster, harm, or adversity. In Isaiah 45:7, the context suggests that God is speaking about His control over events in the world, including peace and calamity, rather than moral evil.
To understand better, the context of the text can help illuminate what this verse mean.
Isaiah 45 addresses God’s sovereignty, particularly His use of Cyrus the Persian as an instrument to fulfill His purposes. God is declaring that He is in control of all creation and history, both positive and negative events, to achieve His divine plan.
Does God Create Moral Evil?
No, the Bible consistently teaches that God is holy and does not commit or tempt anyone to sin (James 1:13). The "evil" or "calamity" referred to in Isaiah 45:7 pertains to judgment or disasters that God allows or causes as part of His justice, not moral wrongdoing.
Therefore, Isaiah 45:7 does not mean God creates moral evil; it highlights His sovereignty over all aspects of life, including light and darkness, peace and calamity, emphasizing that nothing happens outside His control.
2. God’s Nature is Holy and Good
Scripture is clear that God is holy and incapable of sin. James 1:13 says,
"God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He tempt anyone."
From the beginning, God’s creation was declared "very good" (Genesis 1:31). Evil, as we understand it, did not originate from God but from the rebellion of His created beings.
Lucifer, an angel, chose to defy God, bringing sin into existence (Isaiah 14:12-15). Similarly, Adam and Eve's disobedience in the Garden of Eden introduced sin and death into humanity (Romans 5:12).
3. Why Does God Allow Evil?
This leads us to the heart of the matter: Why does God allow evil to exist if He did not create it? The answer lies in free will and God's redemptive plan. God created us with the capacity to choose, for love and obedience cannot be genuine if they are coerced.
Unfortunately, humanity often chooses selfishness and sin, resulting in suffering.
But even in the presence of evil, God's purposes prevail. Romans 8:28 assures us,
"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose."
God can take what is meant for evil and use it for His glory and our ultimate good, as demonstrated in the life of Joseph (Genesis 50:20).
4. God’s Ultimate Victory Over Evil
The Bible promises that evil is temporary. Through Jesus Christ, God has provided the solution to sin and its consequences. On the cross, Jesus defeated sin, death, and Satan.
Revelation 21:4 offers us hope:
"He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away."
God’s plan culminates in a new creation where evil no longer exists.
Application
1. Trust in God’s Sovereignty
When faced with tragedy or evil, remember that God is in control. He sees the bigger picture that we cannot.
2. Pursue Holiness
Since God is holy, we are called to reject sin and live in obedience to Him.
3. Be Agents of Good
In a world affected by evil, we are called to be the light of Christ, working against injustice, comforting the suffering, and spreading the Gospel.
Conclusion
So, does God create evil?
The answer is "No," He does not create moral evil, but He is sovereign over all things, including calamities, which He uses to accomplish His divine purposes.
Our comfort lies in knowing that God’s nature is good and His plans are redemptive. Let us place our trust in Him and look forward to the day when evil will be no more.
Let us pray.
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your Word, which guides us in understanding difficult questions. Help us trust in Your goodness, even when we face challenges. Strengthen our faith and use us as instruments of Your love in this world. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
