How can evil coexist with a merciful God?

The first lesson begins by problematizing the idea of pure evil. Through a few examples, students are presented with the case that “evil” and “good” are time-bound and culturally specific associations; thus, evil does not always look and feel the same to everyone.

The optional extension builds on lesson one by exploring, as case studies, certain marriage practices that are currently considered unethical but were regularities for much of human history. The detailed activity reinforces for students the notion that humans cannot determine what ‘evil’ is in absolute terms.

The second lesson focuses on the way students understand and relate to God and His actions. Although evil and suffering may exist in the world, students will learn to distinguish between characterizing God’s actions, what He wants of us as humans, and what actually happens. This distinction allows students to recognize that God can both exist and be all-Powerful and all-Loving even if they experience suffering.

In the final lesson of the unit, students are presented with a framework through which they can find meaning in suffering. Rather than thinking of their experiences of pain as purely distressing, students are encouraged to recognize suffering as a moral challenge intended to bring forth the best from within them. They will also learn to reframe their thinking through a theocentric worldview in which suffering is not at odds with a benevolent God.