Where is all of this Evil Coming From?

Understanding the Sources of Evil in a Post-Resurrection World

In the latest episode of Heart of the Matter, host Shawn McCraney delves into a pressing question many Christians grapple with: “Where is all this evil coming from?” This inquiry arises particularly in the context of the belief that Jesus has already returned and claimed His bride, which implies that Satan has been defeated. Yet, the presence of evil in the world seems to contradict this notion.

McCraney outlines three potential sources of evil. First, he discusses the Fall, where Satan gained dominion over the world, leading to the capture of souls. Although Jesus triumphed over Satan through His life, death, and resurrection, the remnants of Satan’s influence linger in the physical world. This victory was spiritual, and while Jesus freed individuals from sin, the material consequences of the Fall persist.

The second source of evil, as highlighted in James 1:14, is the innate human tendency toward lust and temptation. This capacity for desire has been part of human nature since the beginning, allowing individuals to choose paths that lead to sin.

Lastly, McCraney speculates that even with Satan’s defeat, there may still be dark influences at play. He suggests that those motivated by darkness, possibly even spirits of the deceased, could continue to encourage sinful behavior in the living.

Ultimately, McCraney emphasizes that the defeat of Satan does not equate to the absence of evil in the world. The complexities of human nature and the remnants of darkness contribute to the ongoing struggle against sin. Viewers are encouraged to share their thoughts and questions, which will be addressed in future episodes.