Why does a 'good' God let 'evil' things happen? Part 2
In Part 2 of this series on the problem of evil, Staci and Elizabeth dive into one of the most challenging topics in Scripture: how a good, holy, and pure God could command war and the destruction of whole nations in the Old Testament. Moving past superficial ideas of "morality," this conversation reframes Christianity as an abiding heart connection with a holy Creator rather than a checklist of rules.
We unpack the true meaning of the Hebrew word herem ("devoted to destruction"), address the horrific ancient practices (such as child sacrifice) that brought divine judgment, contrast God's divine authorization in Scripture with human abuses like the Crusades, and offer practical encouragement on rest, honesty, and trusting God through life's deepest trials.
In This Episode We Talk About:
- God, Judgment, and Old Testament Warfare:
- Why Christianity isn't just about "morality" or "being good," but about a heart posture toward a holy God.
- The original covenant promises to Abraham and how Jesus opens the door for all nations to be grafted in (Genesis 12:1β3, Galatians 3:16β19).
- Understanding the Hebrew term Herem (cherem) β total removal from human use and sacred dedication to God, rather than simple wholesale destruction.
- Why God commanded the dispossession of ancient nations: eradicating detestable abominations (e.g., child sacrifice) to preserve a pure remnant and protect His people from idolatry (Deuteronomy 12:29β32, Deuteronomy 9:4).
- Distinguishing divine authorization and God-accomplished victories in the Old Testament from unauthorized human-led "holy wars" like the Crusades.
Key Scriptures Mentioned
- 1 Kings 19:4β8
- Proverbs 6:16β19
- Philippians 4:4
- Genesis 12:1β3
- Galatians 3:16β19
- Deuteronomy 12:29β32
- Deuteronomy 9:4
- Joshua 10β11
Favorite Quote from This Episode:
"White-knuckling morality is not what it's about... It is about a heart posture, a heart connection to the King of Kings, to God Himself who invites us in."
Savor Moment:
Spend some time in prayer asking the Lord if there are things in your life that need to be devoted to Him, and be willing to surrender those things to Himβ¦
Make Chippy Boys!
Cape Cod Potato Chips, blue cheese crumbles and balsamic glaze
Pour the chips in a microwave bowl and sprinkle with blue cheese
Warm the chips in the microwave for 30-45 seconds then drizzle glaze
Reflection Question:
Where in your life might you be relying on "white-knuckling morality" or making excuses (like small white lies), instead of cultivating a deep, honest heart connection with a holy and merciful God?
Episode References:
- Gary Ledbetter, βWar,β in The Popular Encyclopedia of Apologetics: Surveying the Evidence for the Truth of Christianity (Eugene, OR: Harvest House Publishers, 2008), 492.
Alan Murray, The Crusades to the Holy Land: The Essential Reference Guide, ed. Alan Murray (New York, NY: ABC-CLIO, 2015). [See here.]
Peter C. Craigie, The Problem of War in the Old Testament (Grand Rapids, MI: William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 1978), 27β28.
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