Overview
You don't expect evil. It leaves you shocked, in pain, angry. It's hard to believe in these times that God continues to care—that he's still there and bringing everything together for the good. These 8 studies by Douglas Connelly are meant to build your trust in him for the days you need it most.
Introduction
Getting the Most Out of Good & Evil
This section introduces the topic, explains the structure followed in each study and offers tips for those approaching the study on their own as well as those participating in a group.
Session One
Understanding the Human Condition
In verse 11 Paul says that there is "no one who seeks God." But don't those who are Christians seek after God when they believe in Jesus? How would you explain Paul's statement?
Romans 3:9-20
Session Two
Dealing with Disaster
If no evil or disaster can happen without God's permission, what does that make you wonder about God's nature?
Job 1
Session Three
Disability and the Goodness of God
Why does Jesus make mud and smear it on the man's eyes and send him to a different location? Why not just instantly heal the man?
John 9:1-7
Session Four
Struggling with Sickness
Why does James connect physical healing with the confession of sin?
James 5:13-18
Session Five
Our Enemy in the World
In verse 10 Satan is called "the accuser of our brothers." What insight does that phrase give you into how Satan might be involved in your life?
Revelation 12:7-12
Session Six
The Enemy Within
Give an example of how you have sensed the struggle in your own life between the two forces—a desire to do good and the law of sin at work within your members.
Romans 7:14-25
Session Seven
Overcoming Death's Grip
How does the presence of the Holy Spirit guarantee what is to come after death?
2 Corinthians 5:1-10
Session Eight
Finding Hope in a Terrorized World
The second stanza pictures the security and safety of dwelling in God's presence. How would you describe the place where you normally "dwell" spiritually? Is it near God or a distance away?
Psalm 46
Total number of pages—59 pages
Douglas Connelly (M.Div. and M.Th., Grace Theological Seminary) is senior pastor at Parkside Community Church in Sterling Heights, Michigan. He has written several books and Bible study guides, including the LifeGuide® Bible Studies Angels, Daniel, Elijah, Encountering Jesus, Following Jesus, Forgiveness, Heaven, Heroes of Faith, I Am, John, The Lord's Prayer, Meeting the Spirit and Miracles.
