The presence of evil in the world is a significant theme throughout the Bible, reflecting the ongoing struggle between good and evil that characterizes human existence. From the earliest chapters of Genesis to the apocalyptic visions in Revelation, Scripture addresses the origins, manifestations, and ultimate defeat of evil.

Origins of Evil

The Bible traces the origin of evil to the rebellion of Satan, a fallen angel who sought to usurp God's authority. Isaiah 14:12-15 and Ezekiel 28:12-17 are often interpreted as allusions to Satan's fall, describing a being of great beauty and wisdom who became proud and was cast down. In the New Testament, Jesus refers to Satan as a "murderer from the beginning" and "the father of lies" (John 8:44).

The entrance of evil into the human experience is depicted in Genesis 3, where the serpent, identified with Satan in Revelation 12:9, tempts Eve to disobey God. This act of disobedience introduces sin and death into the world, as described in Romans 5:12: "Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, so also death was passed on to all men, because all sinned" .

Manifestations of Evil

Evil manifests in various forms throughout the biblical narrative. It is seen in personal sin, such as Cain's murder of Abel (Genesis 4:8), and in systemic evil, such as the oppression of the Israelites in Egypt (Exodus 1:8-14). The prophets frequently denounce social injustices, idolatry, and moral corruption as manifestations of evil (e.g., Isaiah 1:4, Amos 5:12).

The New Testament continues to address the presence of evil, emphasizing spiritual warfare. Ephesians 6:12 states, "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this world's darkness, and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms" . Believers are called to resist evil through faith, prayer, and the armor of God (Ephesians 6:13-18).

God's Sovereignty and the Problem of Evil

The presence of evil raises questions about God's sovereignty and goodness. The Bible affirms that God is sovereign over all creation and that He permits evil for a time, using it to accomplish His purposes. Joseph's account illustrates this truth; despite his brothers' evil intentions, God used their actions for good (Genesis 50:20).

The Book of Job addresses the problem of suffering and evil, presenting a narrative where Job, a righteous man, endures severe trials. While Job never receives a direct answer to his questions about suffering, he encounters God's majesty and wisdom, leading him to trust in God's ultimate justice and goodness (Job 42:1-6).

The Defeat of Evil

The Bible promises the ultimate defeat of evil through the redemptive work of Jesus Christ. At the cross, Jesus triumphed over sin and death, disarming the powers of evil (Colossians 2:15). His resurrection is the assurance of victory over evil, as stated in 1 Corinthians 15:57: "But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ" .

The final defeat of evil is depicted in Revelation, where Satan and his forces are cast into the lake of fire (Revelation 20:10). The new heaven and new earth will be free from sin, death, and suffering, fulfilling God's promise to make all things new (Revelation 21:4-5).

Human Responsibility and Response

Believers are called to resist evil and pursue righteousness. James 4:7 instructs, "Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you" . Christians are encouraged to overcome evil with good (Romans 12:21) and to be vigilant, as the devil prowls like a roaring lion (1 Peter 5:8).

The presence of evil in the world is a complex and multifaceted issue, yet the Bible provides hope and assurance of God's ultimate victory over evil through Jesus Christ.