God and the Existence of Evil

The second book of this series "Theology in Public" presents a great figure, St. John Chrysostom, and his theological teaching.

One of the most significant sermons of Chrysostom is the one which bears the title "On the Devil." Chrysostom answers the timeless questions about the relationship between evil, demons, man and God. Who rules the things of this world? The answer seems simple, God. But why then is there so much suffering and injustice; why do the poor and the righteous man suffer and the unrighteous and rich man flourish; why do wicked men move unharmed and instead pious and honest men suffer? Since God is omnipotent and benevolent how can the power of evil in the world can be explained. Are demons an independent principle and their wickedness determining the progression of reality, and if so to what extent? On the pages of this homily, Chrysostom gives answers to these questions and also explains how the charity of God is combined with His righteousness.