The Reality of Evil

The Call to Fight Against It

The Reality of Evil and the Call to Fight Against It

Evil has been a topic of contemplation and concern since the earliest of human civilizations. The Bible, too, offers significant insights into the nature of evil, its origins, and the moral imperative to resist it. Here is an exploration of the concept of evil and the biblical call to combat it.

The Origin and Nature of Evil

Genesis tells the story of Adam and Eve, the first humans, who were created in the image of God and placed in the Garden of Eden. They were given freedom of choice, and it was this freedom that led to their disobedience. Genesis 3:6-7 reads, "And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat. And the eyes of them both were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together, and made themselves aprons."

This act of disobedience introduced sin and evil into the world. Since then, humanity has grappled with the existence and consequences of evil.

The Discomfort of Acknowledging Evil

It's undeniable that recognizing evil is uncomfortable. Accepting its reality often leads to a realization of personal shortcomings and moral responsibilities. Proverbs 28:13 declares, "He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy." Denial, in many ways, becomes a defense mechanism, allowing individuals to remain in a comfort zone, untouched by the weight of moral duty.

The Mandate to Combat Evil

The Bible doesn't merely identify evil; it also calls for its active resistance. James 4:7 offers clear instruction, "Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." Believers are encouraged to stand firm against evil and to pursue righteousness. Ephesians 6:11-13 elaborates on this mandate: "Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand."

The Role of Personal Choice

Evil's presence poses a perpetual choice. Every individual must decide whether to acknowledge it and stand against it, or to deny its existence and thus, implicitly, allow its perpetuation. Joshua, in his final address to the Israelites, challenged them with a choice, as recorded in Joshua 24:15, "And if it seem evil unto you to serve the Lord, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord."

Conclusion

Evil, its origins, and its implications are matters that the Bible addresses comprehensively. While the initial response might be one of denial, both for reasons of comfort and self-preservation, the scriptures repeatedly exhort believers to confront and resist evil. The choice remains with every individual – to acknowledge and resist or to turn a blind eye. As believers work to align their lives with biblical teachings, they are equipped with the strength and guidance needed to face the challenges posed by evil and to make choices that reflect righteousness and justice.