The problem of evil
I can explain the problem of evil and the divergent responses offered as solutions to the problem of evil.
The problem of evil
I can explain the problem of evil and the divergent responses offered as solutions to the problem of evil.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- For Christians, beliefs about God come from the Bible which teaches that God is just, (omni)benevolent and omnipotent.
- The problem of evil and suffering refers to the questions about God’s nature that the existence of evil raises.
- Many Christians defend God's nature through Biblical, theoretical and practical solutions and responses.
- Solutions to the problem of evil can offer Christians reassurance of God's nature, provide comfort and encourage action.
Keywords
Evil - the opposite of good; a cause of suffering and against the will of God
(omni)benevolent - the belief that God is 'all loving'
Omnipotent - the belief that God is 'all powerful'
Suffering - an effect of evil; undergoing pain and hardship
Common misconception
The existence of evil and suffering proves that God does not exist.
For Christians, there are a number of Biblical, theoretical and practical responses and solutions to the problem of evil.
To help you plan your year 10 religious education lesson on: The problem of evil, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 10 religious education lesson on: The problem of evil, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
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Explore more key stage 4 religious education lessons from the Christian beliefs unit, dive into the full secondary religious education curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Equipment
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of sensitive content
- Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Lesson video
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Starter quiz
5 Questions
Exit quiz
6 Questions
Psalm 103:8: The Lord is compassionate, gracious... abounding in love.
the Parable of the Sheep and the Goats about separation and heaven
Exodus 7-11 (the Ten Plagues), Genesis 1-3 (creation)