Ask NT Wright Anything Episode #233: Free Will and the Problem of Evil (Classic) – Detailed Summary

Release Date: November 14, 2024
Host: Premier
Speaker: Tom Wright

Introduction to the Episode

In Episode #233 of the Ask NT Wright Anything podcast, host Tom Wright delves into one of theology's most enduring and challenging questions: the problem of evil and free will. This episode addresses listener inquiries with depth and philosophical rigor, aiming to provide thoughtful insights rather than definitive answers.

The Problem of Evil and Free Will

[00:53] Tom Wright opens the discussion by acknowledging the complexity of the problem of evil and suffering, labeling it as "one of the biggest questions that has existed since time immemorial." He emphasizes that while a neat resolution may be elusive, the conversation aims to offer frameworks for understanding.

[01:42] Tom Wright elaborates that if God is seen as a good and wise creator, the existence of evil poses a significant paradox. He warns against theologians who might rationalize evil as a necessary component of God's creation, suggesting that such reasoning leads to a "very dark conclusion." He references a moment from his time teaching in Oxford, where Rowan Williams posited that solving the problem of evil could be immoral, as it might imply approval of a world where evil has a place.

Listener Question: Free Will and Evil

A listener named Deb from Garland, North Carolina, poses a poignant question:

"Could you explain free will and how it relates to evil?... Does God allow cruelty to happen to innocent people so that he or she can be loved?"
— Deb, [03:44]

[04:21] Tom Wright responds by suggesting that Deb's exploration of Paul's Romans is a commendable starting point. He contrasts the atheist perspective, which grapples with the "problem of good," with the Christian viewpoint that asserts an innate moral sense beyond mere personal preference.

[05:55] Tom Wright argues against the naturalistic and utilitarian accounts of good and evil, positing that concepts like justice, truth, and beauty transcend cultural and temporal variations. He underscores that evil, whether human or natural, introduces suffering that mere philosophical defenses fail to adequately address.

Biblical Perspectives on Free Will

[07:40] Tom Wright critiques the traditional free will defense, noting its philosophical pitfalls where excessive freedom can lead to randomness and moral chaos. He highlights that Biblical thought shifts the focus from free will to responsibility and dignity in making choices, citing Christianity’s emphasis on humans making "wise, good, healing choices."

He contrasts modern Western thought's grappling with natural disasters and suffering, such as the Lisbon earthquake of 1755, with Augustine's acceptance of a fallen world under God’s ultimate authority. Wright points out that early Christians perceived suffering as part of a divine narrative aiming for the world's restoration, not as evidence against God’s existence.

The Narrative of Jesus and the Problem of Evil

[10:30] Tom Wright introduces Deb's deeper concern about the trade-off between free will and the resultant suffering of innocents. He references Dostoevsky and articulates the Christian response centered on Jesus Christ's incarnation and sacrifice as a direct confrontation to evil.

He mentions his book, Evil and the Justice of God, summarizing that the Gospels depict Jesus facing insidious forces culminating in the crucifixion, which breaks the power of evil. Wright emphasizes that this narrative transcends philosophical discourse, presenting a historical and salvific perspective where the church is called to actively combat injustice and evil in the world.

[12:54] Tom Wright connects this to Romans 8, where Paul acknowledges the brokenness of the world but affirms that believers are being transformed towards a new creation. He highlights that the Christian response involves participating in God's redemptive work, guided by the Holy Spirit, rather than seeking purely philosophical explanations.

The Nature of Freedom in the New Creation

[14:15] Tom Wright addresses Deb's follow-up question about the New Heaven and New Earth. He explains that Christian eschatology envisions a transformed existence where evil is decisively overcome, referencing the Book of Revelation's depiction of Satan's ultimate defeat.

He cautions against overly simplistic free will defenses that might imply a potential for another fall, emphasizing that in Christian belief, the Holy Spirit ensures genuine freedom aligned with righteousness.

[17:14] Tom Wright uses analogies of driving a car and musical improvisation to illustrate that true freedom is exercised within understood boundaries. He argues that Biblical freedom is about living in a disciplined relationship with God, which paradoxically enhances genuine liberty rather than constraining it.

Practical Implications: Christianity and Politics

Transitioning from theological discourse, the episode explores the practical application of Christian principles in governance and societal structures, prompted by listener Doug Stewart from the Libertarian Christian Podcast.

[22:30] Tom Wright discusses the delicate balance between personal moralism and corporate moralism in politics. He contrasts the American stringent separation of church and state with the more intertwined relationship observed in Britain. Wright argues that theocratic governance, as envisioned by Christianity, differs fundamentally from historical and oppressive theocracies because it is based on love, justice, and the transformative power of ordinary believers.

[26:26] Tom Wright reflects on the church's enduring role in societal welfare—addressing poverty, healthcare, and education—tasks historically undertaken by the church but increasingly managed by the state. He contends that Christians should maintain a prophetic voice in society, advocating for justice and compassion in alignment with Jesus' teachings.

Being Christians in Modern Democracies

Responding to Doug's final question:

"If declaring Jesus is Lord means implicitly that Caesar is not, how might Christ's followers live today in a world of American and European empires that are somewhat more democratic than the Roman Empire?"
— Doug, [29:26]

[29:41] Tom Wright compares ancient Roman political dynamics with modern democratic systems. He underscores the importance of Christians actively participating in society to influence positive change, praying for leaders who embody wisdom and integrity. Wright envisions a Christian engagement that upholds the Kingdom of God through everyday actions and societal contributions rather than retreating from public life.

Conclusion

[19:59] Tom Wright concludes by embracing the mystery of evil within Christianity, contrasting it with the perceived meaninglessness in atheistic worldviews. He invokes Martin Luther's perspective on understanding nature through grace and the anticipation of deeper mysteries to be revealed in glory.

This episode underscores that while definitive answers to the problem of evil may be unattainable, the Christian narrative offers a framework for grappling with suffering through faith, responsibility, and active participation in God's redemptive purposes.

Notable Quotes

• Tom Wright [01:42]:
  "If we believe that God is the good and wise creator, then evil doesn't make sense."

• Tom Wright [07:40]:
  "Biblical thought... focuses on responsibility that humans are given the dignity of making choices."

• Tom Wright [10:30]:
  "The story that we tell is a story in which God himself has come in person to take the full force of all that evil onto himself."

• Tom Wright [17:25]:
  "Virtue is a second nature. It's a second freedom."

• Tom Wright [19:59]:
  "I'd rather live with evil and suffering as a mystery in Christianity than it simply being meaningless, as you said, in a purely atheistic worldview."

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the key discussions, insights, and theological explorations presented by Tom Wright in addressing the intricate relationship between free will and the problem of evil within Christian thought.