The Problem of Inherent Evil in Creation Theology

As we ponder the mysteries of God's creation, we're met with the profound question of why our all-good and all-wise God would create a species, humanity, with an inherent propensity for evil. It's a query that has puzzled believers and skeptics alike for centuries. Yet, as we delve into the rich tapestry of Scripture, we find that God's sovereignty and wisdom are not diminished by human sin, but rather, they are showcased in the grand narrative of redemption. In Genesis 1:31, we're told that God saw all He had made, including humanity, and behold, it was very good. However, with the entrance of sin through Adam's disobedience, humanity's nature became marred by rebellion against God, as described in Romans 3:23, where it's written that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.

But why would God create humanity with the capacity for evil? The answer lies not in God's desire for evil to exist, but in His desire for humanity to have genuine freedom to love and obey Him. As the Westminster Confession of Faith so eloquently states, God "freely and ordain[ed] whatsoever comes to pass," including the fall of humanity. This paradox is resolved when we consider that God's decree of human freedom is not a decree of sin, but rather, it's a decree that allows for the possibility of sin, which is then used by God to demonstrate His glory in redemption, as seen in Romans 9:22-23, where Paul writes about the vessels of wrath and mercy. In this grand drama, God's holiness and justice are upheld, while His mercy and love are displayed in the person of Jesus Christ, who bore the penalty of sin on behalf of His people, as proclaimed in 2 Corinthians 5:21, where it's written that God made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us. Ultimately, the existence of evil in humanity serves as a backdrop for the splendor of God's redeeming love, which shines brightest in the darkness of human rebellion.