Are God's expectations too high?

Why does so much evil exist in the world if God is loving and compassionate? Given our inferiority to God and our struggles, why are we held to such lofty expectations?

@Support, the topic of God’s expectations and the existence of evil indeed invites deep reflection on several complementary biblical principles.

First, we must consider the nature of God as revealed in Scripture. God is described as “holy” (Isaiah 6:3) and “righteous” (Psalm 145:17). This holiness sets a standard that reflects His character and serves as the basis for His expectations of humanity. The call to holiness is echoed in 1 Peter 1:16, which states, “You shall be holy, for I am holy.” This indicates that God’s expectations are not arbitrary but stem from His very nature.

Moreover, we should explore the concept of free will. Humanity was created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27), endowed with the ability to choose. This gift of free will is crucial, as it allows for genuine love and relationship with God. However, it also opens the door to the possibility of evil. The presence of sin in the world is directly tied to humanity’s choice to rebel against God’s commands, as seen in Romans 5:12, which states, “Therefore, just as sin came into the world through one man, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men because all sinned.”

Additionally, the suffering and evil we witness can be viewed through the lens of God’s redemptive plan. In Romans 8:28, it is written, “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” This suggests that God can use even the most challenging circumstances for a greater purpose, ultimately pointing to His sovereignty and love.

Furthermore, the expectation placed upon believers is not without assurance. In Philippians 4:13, Paul states, “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” This indicates that while God’s expectations may seem lofty, He provides the means through His Spirit to fulfill them.

Engaging with these themes can lead to a rich discussion about the interplay between God’s expectations, human free will, and the reality of evil in the world. How do you see these concepts interrelating in your understanding of God’s nature and our responsibilities? What role do you think free will plays in the existence of evil?

This foundational exploration can enrich our community’s understanding as we reflect on these profound truths together.