God’s Problem: How the Bible Fails to Answer Our Most Important Question

“God’s Problem: How the Bible Fails to Answer Our Most Important Question” is a book written by Bart D. Ehrman, a prominent American scholar of religion and a professor of religious studies at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. The book was published in 2008 and explores the problem of evil and suffering as it is addressed in the Bible.

In “God’s Problem,” Ehrman discusses the theological issue known as theodicy, which concerns the attempt to reconcile the existence of evil and suffering in the world with the concept of a loving and all-powerful God. Ehrman examines the various biblical explanations and responses to the problem of evil, such as the ideas of divine punishment, moral responsibility, and the testing of faith.

The book challenges traditional interpretations of biblical texts and argues that the Bible itself fails to provide satisfactory answers to the problem of evil. Ehrman delves into the Old Testament and New Testament, examining passages that deal with suffering, pain, and the reasons behind them. He questions the effectiveness of the biblical answers and argues that they often fall short of addressing the profound human experience of suffering.

“God’s Problem” also delves into Ehrman’s own personal journey and how his study of the Bible and its treatment of suffering led him to question his own faith. It presents a critical perspective on the biblical narratives and raises important theological and philosophical questions about the nature of God, human suffering, and the reliability of the Bible as a source of answers.

It’s important to note that “God’s Problem” represents a particular viewpoint and interpretation of the Bible, and there are various theological perspectives and responses to the problem of evil within religious scholarship. Reading multiple perspectives can provide a more comprehensive understanding of the topic.