How Does Jesus Resolve the Problem of Suffering - Assignment Example

By praying, we seek God’s forgiveness of our sins and we in turn forgive others. This way, our human suffering, which is normally a result of confining ourselves to our areas of operation, is reduced and we remain focused and hoping for the kingdom of God (Gibbs et al. 131).

3. According to Fischer and Hart, How does Jesus resolve the problem of suffering and evil? Briefly explain each of the four elements in his response. How does this response help us to understand what a Christian response to one who has AIDS might be?

When we are suffering, Jesus is always on our side to guide us on how to respond to evil and suffering. Through Jesus, God intervenes in our circumstances and walks with us, showing us what to do at those moments when we feel weak. Regarding solving the problem of evil and suffering, there are four elements involved, which are (Fischer & Hart 121):
(1). Jesus forgives us our sins and calls people to get converted. He is merciful enough and is always ready to forgive everyone who seeks his mercy. He forgives us our sins and converts us to be among his chosen ones.

(2). Jesus heals us from our sufferings. When faced with all sorts of sufferings, Jesus is always ready to heal us relieving us of the burden of suffering.
(3). Jesus conquers the suffering and death in His resurrection. By dying on the cross, he conquered the suffering of death, so that our sins may be forgiven.
(4). Jesus left his twelve disciples to spread the gospel. When he was resurrected from death after three days, he left his disciples to continue with the work he had started of fighting sins and evil.

Based on the above four elements, a Christian suffering from AIDS will get encouragement to fight AIDS knowing that even Christ Jesus himself suffered so much. The Christian will have the assurance that the suffering is just for a short time while on this earth, and then inherit the eternal kingdom in the life after.
4. What do you think of Bonhoeffera’s response to suffering and evil?

According to Bonhoeffer, suffering can destroy the ability to respond to God, something which he considered as a temptation, a temptation which to some extent may result from despair driving someone into committing suicide. Bonhoeffer however gives us hope from suffering by assuring us that the compassion of Christ is always with us and is enough to rescue a person who is tempted (Blackburn 178). Bonhoeffer noted that the suffering of Christ Jesus on the cross brought people closer to the Christian faith. The death of Christ was meant to bring us salvation, save us from evils and guide us toward the kingdom of God. Read More