Find A Solitary Place | Jun 2, 2024
Dr. Larry Baucom and Dr. Troy Doucet tackle the nagging question residing in the back of so many minds: “If God is good, loving, and all-powerful then why is there so much suffering and evil in the world?” The philosophical and theological problem is called “The Problem of Evil” and the formal term for the defense of God’s goodness and providence given evil’s existence is “Theodicy”. Both of the Pastors have written scholarly articles on the topic and therefore, offer expert analyses of the problem but, perhaps more importantly, their practical suggestions for dealing with suffering make this one of the most meaningful dialogues ever presented at Suncoast.
The dialogue unfolds with three compelling points inspired by the gospel account of Matthew, chapter 14, verses 1-14.
Point 1: Life contains tragedies that we cannot avoid. verse
Now Herod had arrested John and bound him and put him in prison because of Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife, 4 for John had been saying to him: “It is not lawful for you to have her.” 5 Herod wanted to kill John, but he was afraid of the people because they considered John a prophet.
On Herod’s birthday, the daughter of Herodias danced for the guests and pleased Herod so much that he promised with an oath to give her whatever she asked. Prompted by her mother, she said, “Give me here on a platter the head of John the Baptist.” The king was distressed, but because of his oaths and his dinner guests, he ordered that her request be granted and had John beheaded in prison. His head was brought in on a platter and given to the girl, who carried it to her mother. (Mt. 14:6-11)
The Pastors discussed what they believe the story teaches:
It is not biblical to say that life should have no heartaches.
It is not biblical to say there was a greater reason for John’s death.
It is not biblical to say that God took him…
It is not biblical to say that God’s Garden needed a rose…
Wrapping up the point, the Pastors offer what they think is a better theology: to accept reality for what it is and determine to trust God regardless.
Point 2: When heartache arrives find a solitary place.
“When Jesus heard what had happened, he withdrew by boat privately to a solitary place.”
(Mt. 14:13a)
Considering Jesus’ example, Pastors Troy and Larry made the following suggestions:
Laying blame on a group, a person, or God does not remedy the situation. Instead of blaming God, wouldn’t it be better to go to him for grace and encouragement? Wouldn’t it be better to let this tragedy make our hearts more sensitive to others? Go to Jesus and spend some quiet time with him. Let him help you process your feelings and guide your heart.
Point 3: When we return from the quiet place…life will be waiting.
“When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them and healed their sick.” (Mt. 14:13b-14)
Life does not stop when we experience a tragedy. Life does not stop because a loved one dies, we lose a job, or get divorced.
Quoting Martin Luther, Pastor Troy said, “God can ride a lame horse or shoot straight with a crooked bow.” This means that God can work with less than the best of circumstances. The cross of Christ, the greatest of the world's tragedies, is a sign. It is not an answer or a reason for the suffering in life - it is something even better.
The cross says God is with us, particularly in the dark times. The cross says, that wherever there is a tragedy, injustice, or pain, God will be there.
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