OnlineBookClub.org

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Why God Allows Evil and Suffering" by Sine Nomine.]

It is a topic that has led many rational people to lose their faith in God and in humanity. Why God Allows Evil and Suffering is a theological book written by an anonymous author calling themselves “Sine Nomine,” which means “without a name” in Latin. In this brief but intensely cerebral publication, the author provides his/her best arguments and explanations as to how the omniscient, omnipotent, and omnibenevolent Creator exists and justifies all of the pain in the world. This discussion leads to many questions. Why were human beings created and what is our ultimate purpose? How does the Trinity prove the biblical assertion that God is love? How and why did the Fall of Man change the structure of the material world from a timeless existence to a temporal existence? You will find the answers to these questions and more as you read this fascinating publication.

The cover design consists of a plain gray background with a black title font. It reminds me of research papers, but it could use some pizzazz to draw readers in. Although, the self-explanatory title gets straight to the point. The author’s writing style is purely academic, and the text contains no violence or profanity. The editing is exceptional because I did not find a single error. This book presents both Roman Catholic and Protestant perspectives and doctrines. However, it leans more toward Catholicism due to frequent references to the Catechism of the Catholic Church. Nevertheless, Christians of all denominations can benefit from this treatise if they are open to different interpretations of the scriptures.

Even though I am on the fence regarding religious tenets, I found many of the author’s arguments quite compelling and original. Like many other people who were raised by God-fearing parents, I have always had nagging questions about the faith. I like the fact that the author cites scripture, theological works, and philosophical literature as evidence for his/her claims. The writings of Aristotle, Epicurus, Augustine of Hippo, and René Descartes are referenced because they discuss the role of reason in mankind’s perceptions of God and the concepts of morality. According to the author, it all comes down to love and the unrestricted exercise of free will. In addition, the writer provides a brief analysis of scientific research papers which seem to prove the long-standing belief that human happiness can be derived through companionship.

However, there are some arguments that could easily be dismantled or called into question by atheists or members of other religions. For example, the author states that humans (like God) possess the power to create new life (reproduce) through an act of love. It can be argued that animals can do the same. The author justifies his claim by expressing his belief that humans are superior to all other beings because we were created in the image of God. Yet, it can also be argued that temptation was created by placing the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil in the Garden of Eden.

Nevertheless, I have chosen to rate Why God Allows Evil and Suffering four out of four stars. Whether you are willing to accept the author’s explanations or not, this compelling book will have you wondering about many biblical concepts. You may even be encouraged to do further research into theology. As it is intended to strengthen a believer’s faith in God, I recommend this book to Christians. Open-minded people who are interested in philosophy will also find it interesting.

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Why God Allows Evil and Suffering
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This book is a must read for all those doubting the existence of God. The number of atheists will be greatly reduced if they can read this edifying book.

The title of the book is so alluring it can even make non-Christians want to have a go at it. I do agree with what the reviewer said in paragraph one, sentence four. This is an undying question Christians will forever ask..." WHY DOES GOD ALLOW EVIL AND SUFFERING?" Before I continue with the discussion on the book, I would love to give the reviewer a good shout out. I love the arrangement of his words and how it comes from a personal perspective. I for one was raised by a God-fearing mother but still, time and time again I have questioned my belief. But if I may ask, is it wise to talk about GOD and science at the same time? In science, we are not the only existing beings. It has been said; there may be others out there in this unending universe; while Christian history says we are the only one. More and more questions just keep coming up. I will really give this book a try and see if it can bring an end to most of the questions.

This is intriguing, I feel like this book will help answer all my questions about God, His existence, and Christianity in general.

This should be a helpful read. Great review.

Sometimes, God allows pain and suffering so that we can fully rely on and depend on Him. Thanks for a detailed review.

I'd love to read the author's perspective on why God allows suffering. Great review.

This book is one that would appeal to many Christians but I am sure non-Christians can find value in it as well. I agree with the reviewer that the book cover needs a little more pizzazz to attract readers. Despite that however, I am sure just the title of the book is enough to grab readers. Thanks for a great review.

I'm not in a position to lecture, but if I understand scripture correctly, its for humans good, that disasters and sufferings happen.
Instructive book and great review!

I'm already itching to get my hands on this book, it seems quite appealing. Great review by the way.

This sounds like a thought-provoking read--I may have to check it out. It adds a bit of intrigue that the author chose to remain anonymous. Thank you for your excellent review and recommendation!

Thanks for sharing your book review. When I saw this book up for review, I picked it up. I never doubted once when I became Christian that evil and suffering was necessary. If it wasn't for my own suffering, I would never have found God, who kept my life purposeful and rewarding in the many years after. However, I was not clear about what others think about this topic, so here I am reading this book.