By Dr. Dianne Coflin
Co-Pastor, River of Life Church
I recently read the interview of the Englishman Stephen Fry (an atheist) who commented on a question asked him by Gay Byrne as to what he would do if he actually met God at the Pearly Gates?
Mr. Fry’s answer was this “I’d say, bone cancer in children?” What’s that about? “How dare you create a world to which there is such misery that is not our fault? It’s not right and utterly, utterly, evil.” He then said, “Why should I respect a capricious mean-minded stupid God who creates a world so full of injustice and pain?”
When I read comments like this, it always hurts my heart that so many have such a perverted view of God and His doings. God has been accused of much over the years, when indeed he has nothing to do with the evil in this world. Now I know God can defend Himself. But I felt I would like to respond.
In the book of Genesis, Adam and Eve were given the (privilege) authority to rule in this earth. (Genesis 2:27-28). Unfortunately, they disobeyed God by partaking of the one tree they were told NOT to eat, BECAUSE if they did, they would surely die. (Genesis 2:16-17) The devil came into this world to steal, kill and destroy. (John 10:10)
The Bible tells us that through one man’s offense (Adam) judgment (death) passed upon all men. However, it was through one Man’s righteous act (Jesus) the free gift came to all of us. This sin-fallen world was NEVER God’s intention, but HE would NEVER override Man’s will. His heart was broken when Adam and Eve disobeyed.
He had warned them so as NOT to have this world ravaged with the likes of that serpent. His desire was a creation that would fellowship with Him and never have to endure the pain of any injustice, evil, pain, or disease.
The question, Stephen Fry, is NOT “How dare you create a world to which there is such misery that is not our fault,”and“Why a world so full of injustice and pain?”
The question SHOULD be, “Why have you been so gracious to a world that has continuously defied your will and your ways, and yet you STILL sent your Son to die in their place, so that fellowship would be restored?”Food for thought!!
We invite you to come join us at River of Life Church in Lutz, Florida. Our services begin at 10:30am on Sundays. We would love to have you come!
Dr. Dianne Coflin
Co-Pastor of River of Life Church.
410 Chapman Rd. East,
Lutz, FL 33549
(813) 949-9931
www.roltampa.org