THEO-104 Biblical Worldview: Module 3 Assignment

Assignment Overview

Learners examine the problem of evil in relation to belief in God. The task involves writing an essay that explores how evil challenges traditional views of a benevolent deity. Participants gain experience in constructing arguments based on theological perspectives.

Instructions

Compose a 750-1,000 word essay addressing the problem of evil. Focus on these elements:

1. Define the logical and evidential versions of the problem of evil.
2. Present at least two theodicies that attempt to reconcile the existence of evil with an all-powerful, all-good God.
3. Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of these theodicies, incorporating biblical references where appropriate.
4. Conclude with your position on whether the problem of evil undermines belief in God, supported by reasoning.

Use APA style for formatting, including a title page and references. Cite at least three scholarly sources. Submit the essay through the learning management system by the due date.

Submission Guidelines

• Format the document in double-spaced, 12-point Times New Roman font.
• Adhere to academic honesty standards; plagiarism results in a zero score.
• Late work receives a 5% deduction per day unless an extension has been approved.

Grading Rubric

The assignment carries 100 points, allocated as follows:

• Content Knowledge (40 points): Accurate explanation of the problem of evil and theodicies.
• Analysis and Evaluation (30 points): Balanced assessment with logical support.
• Integration of Sources (20 points): Effective use of biblical and scholarly materials.
• Writing Mechanics (10 points): Clear structure, grammar, and proper citation.

 The logical problem of evil argues that God and evil cannot coexist if God possesses omnipotence and omnibenevolence. One theodicy suggests free will allows humans to choose evil, preserving moral responsibility. Another views evil as necessary for soul-making, fostering virtues like compassion through suffering.

Study References

Plantinga, A., 2019. God, freedom, and evil. Eerdmans Publishing. Available at: https://books.google.com/books?id=exampleplantinga.

Adams, M.M., 2020. Horrendous evils and the goodness of God. Cornell University Press. Available at: https://doi.org/10.7591/9781501735929.

Howard-Snyder, D., ed., 2021. The evidential argument from evil. Indiana University Press. Available at: https://doi.org/10.2307/j.ctv2sx9h4x.

van Inwagen, P., 2018. The problem of evil. Oxford University Press. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199245604.001.0001.