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Sometimes (at least in principle) God might allow some…

“Sometimes (at least in principle) God might allow some evil because doing so will prevent a greater evil, and sometimes He might allow evil because it will produce a greater good.” quote by Greg Koukl
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“Sometimes (at least in principle) God might allow some evil because doing so will prevent a greater evil, and sometimes He might allow evil because it will produce a greater good.”

Greg Koukl

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Evil may be permitted if it prevents greater harm or yields greater good, reflecting a utilitarian view of divine morality.

In simple terms: God may allow evil to prevent worse or create better outcomes.

Key Takeaway

Weigh consequences when judging moral events.

Themes

theodicy ethics divine purpose

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

theological philosophical

When to use this quote

  • ethical decision making
  • counseling
  • philosophical debate
  • personal crisis

Key Concepts

utilitarianism free will problem of evil theology

Questions to Reflect On

  • What limits should guide this view?
  • How do we assess true greater good?
A Different Perspective

Such reasoning can justify harmful actions if misapplied.

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