Probably the best all around view of suffering that approaches things in a straightforward manner and theological philosophical profound ( )

My favorite author Tim Keller discusses the problem of human suffering from three perspectives (So the book is divided into three sections): 1) How have human beings coped with the problem of suffering, from past to present? 2) What does the Bible teach about suffering? 3) What are some practical things to know/do when you are suffering? The book is surprisingly interesting. The author argues (and successfully persuaded me) it's important to ponder on how to cope with suffering, and Biblical truths about suffering, "before" you actually experience suffering, so that the truths are internalized in you and become an effective source of hope and strength in the event of suffering. The first and second sections laid out how the current secularized worldview cannot address the problem of suffering effectively (without giving an answer of total despair), how in human history four paradigms had developed that help people cope with suffering, and how the Biblical view on suffering differed from the four paradigms, with a complex, layered treatment of the problem. The author also discussed how many people rejected the existence of God because there are suffering in this world, and how this rejection came from an assumption that God exists to serve/intensify human pleasure, which was not a common view held by ancient or medieval people but have become increasingly popular over the past 150 years. ( )

Iƒ??d been told that this was the best Christian book on suffering and I certainly found that to be the case from my own reading. Wonderfully clear and pastorally minded. Very helpful and incisive. Highly recommended. ( )

The structure of the book was interesting. Keller starts with a discussion about comparative religion, atheismā€™s lack of resources for suffering the problem of evil, the theology of the cross and more. In doing so, Keller starts where I didnā€™t expect him to begin: in theology and philosophy. As a result, if I were myself suffering I might find it dry and not immediately helpful. In the Introduction, Keller does suggest that if you are in the midst of affliction that it may be best to jump straight to section 2 and 3. This would be wise but I wonder who does that (skip a third of a book). In many ways section 1 and 2 lay the foundation for the pastoral help in section 3. All Christian practice flows from theology, and the structure of Kellerā€™s book demonstrates that.

Nevertheless, because the first section is intellectually weighty Iā€™m not sure I would give this book to a friend who is in the midst of suffering as the first port of call.

I found Kellerā€™s discussion of the problem of evil clear and penetrating. Iā€™ve always wondered about the free will defense and Keller shows where it fits and why he finds it lacking. In the end Keller provides a number of biblical answers the the problem of senseless suffering but never goes so far as to suggest it removes all mystery and difficultly. The argument Keller favors most is that an all living and all powerful God would also be all wise and have reasons we might not see for allowing suffering. Just as a loving parent may allow their kids to suffer (through eating their vegetables or a vaccination needle) which the child may feels is totally unloving (yet it isnā€™t), so too God may have reasons to permit suffering that are totally consistent with his love and power. This argument is theologically and philosophically plausible but as Keller says, it doesnā€™t make the pain ho away. For that the only answer is the new creation which Jesus will one day bring.

I found this book intellectually stimulating, heart warming and practical. I find sometimes Kellerā€™s sermonic style fails to translate to the written page (but Iā€™m being pedantic).

Thereā€™s a couple of areas I had issues with, especially his treatment of trinity and the atonement on page 150. Keller says that there was a disruption in the trinity, a separation from the beloved, the loss of love at the cross between the father and the son. I believe Keller errs in this regard. In trying to display the immensity or the sons suffering, I fear Keller mistakes what happened at the cross. Mā€™Cheyne whom Keller quotes does better when he says Jesus ā€œwas without any comforts of Godā€”no feeling that God loved him...ā€ (p. 150)

ā€”ā€”ā€”

Keller suggests in his introduction that for those in the midst of adversity they may wish to read parts two and three of the book first. I would agree.

Part 1 and some sections of part 2 contain philosophical and theological evaluation of the problem of pain and the failure of other religions and the secular worldview to offer a livable theory of suffering. These sections are pitched at a highly educated audience, and every pastor will benefit from the worldview analysis and theological summaries of the doctrine of Godā€™s sovereignty and suffering. While I enjoyed part 1, it made me question this is THE book on suffering that I would recommend to all people.

Part 3, on the other hand, is incredibly pastoral and accessible and would provide immediate help to those in the midst of adversity. Perhaps following Kellerā€™s advice in the introduction, all readers should begin at Part 3, then read Part 2 and finish with Part 1, if they are able. That way the reader moves through the book from the pastoral to the philosophical rather than the other way around. My problem with the order of the book is that I think people who are suffering may give up before they get to the practical help the Christian faith offers. So too, inexperienced readers, may give up and miss out on part 3 because the suspect the entire book would be as dense as part 1.

I do think this is THE book on suffering that I would recommend to all people, but I would make sure I am encouraging them to start at part 3. ( )

Best Books on pain and suffering I've read. ( )