Erickson and the Problem of Evil
Erickson gives three main solutions to the problem of evil. First, Erickson points out that finitism is given for a solution to the problem of evil in that it abandons the very idea of God's omnipotence (Erickson, 439). Second, Erickson points out that modification of the concept of the goodness of God is used for a solution of evil (Erickson, 442). The third proposed solution for the problem of evil that Erickson brings forth is the denial of evil (Erickson, 445). Overall, all three solutions to the problem of evil are generally considered insufficient for explaining the problem of evil.
Erickson's response to the solutions
Erickson points out that dualism (Erickson, 440) is a doctrine of finitism that promotes God and evil as being two spiritual forces at conflict with one another without the ability for God to overcome evil. The problem with dualism is that it becomes unclear if God will win in the end, and choosing between God and evil is more like choosing sides on a team. Dualism is thus a incredibly wrong doctrine.
Erickson next points out Brightman as being a promoter of personalism as a solution to the problem of evil (Erickson, 440). Such a God in this view would exist as a will that works with the "given" as defined as composing of the so called uncreated laws of mathematics and logic (Erickson, 440). The problem with this view is that the "given" cannot be created by God. Erickson criticizes Brightman by saying that his system gives a explanation to why evil exists, but it does not give any encouragement to believers that evil will be overcome.
Erickson points out that people like Clark will promote God as being the cause of sin, but that God is not sinful to cause sin because God for example he cannot steel since everything that exists belongs to him (Erickson, 443). The problem of evil is thus explained by showing how a modification of God's goodness explains away such a problem. Erickson's response is that with Clarks view God's will is arbitrary and thus accountability determines morality with a wrong action being punished and a right action being rewarded (Erickson, 444).
The denial of evil is noted as being a third solution for evil that Erickson brings forth, and under this view evil has no reality corresponding to it but instead is just a matter of belief (Erickson, 445). Erickson points out Christian Science as being a promoter of this view, but their elimination of the belief in evil does not cause the Christian Science believer to live forever and thus they are wrong (Erickson, 446). Overall, for Erickson the believing of evil to be a widespread delusion can be clearly seen as incorrect by observing the results of Christian Science believing this doctrine (Erickson, 446).
Bibliography:
Erickson, Millard. Christian Theology, 2nd edition. Grand Rapids, Michigan: Baker Academic, 2005.
Published by Mathew Mount
Faith comes from God and from God alone. Salvation is impossible with man, but all things are possible with God. When Christ transforms us according to the new nature, then Christ reveals himself to others t... View profile
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2 Comments
Post a CommentWow, your vocabulary your ability to write and the intensity of the subject is incredible. Great job! Awesome work
What an intelligent and brilliant work here Matthew. Once again, you have cut to the quick and offered the truth of the problem behind evil. Your comment on the evil of pornography and the resource of the "Pink Cross Foundation." was such a breath of fresh air and offers real hope and a real world solution. Thank you my friend. I am becoming a fan/subscriber of yours today. You offer true wisdom from above on real issues that affect the world and Christians included. Thank you so much my friend.