To give a Christian apologetic response to school shootings, it is important to address the problem of evil. How is it possible that a perfectly good God who is in control over all things would allow such heinous acts of violence carried out against innocent children? Of first importance is the philosophical answer to this question. However, ministering to those affected by gun violence, we are also called to a ministry of patient listening and faithful presence. We simply should not try to present fully formed analytical answers to those who are lamenting the loss of a child. What we can do is be present in the day-to-day wrestling, listening to them in their distress, and pointing them to how Jesus has already-but-not-yet accomplished the end of suffering.
This Postmodern Realities episode is a conversation with Journal author Lisa Cooper about her article in the 42:2 issue, “Was God at Sandy Hook Elementary that Day?”
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Other articles and podcasts featuring this topic:
Postmodern Realities Episode 127 Addressing the Emotional Problem of Evil
Addressing the Emotional Problem of Evil: Why Christians Hope
Postmodern Realities Episode 114 Why Did God Let that Child Die?