Soul-Making from Suffering? John Hick's Irenaean Theodicy

Theodicies are attempts to demonstrate that God isn't responsible for the evil of innocent suffering. Inspired by the 2nd-century theologian Irenaeus, philosopher John Hick argues that innocent suffering is actually a vehicle for what he calls soul-making. Thus God may allow evil, but does so for a good end. Fr. Kerry examines and evaluates Hick's "Irenaean" theodicy, a model that has generated heated debate since its appearance in 1966.

[penglim]

Suffering are what we want to avoid as human. Can we as human avoid suffering? Being careful is one way that we avoid suffering. Being considerate is another. Being kind to others. Being helpful. Having said this, we all must be of one mind, one attitude and one desire to live peaceably with one another so we all can avoid suffering. As mentioned in this video, suffering is caused by we being the victimisers or being the victims. Let us be one to stop suffering. NO TO WAR, NO TO CONFLICT, NO TO KILLING, NO TO MURDER, NO TO HURTING, NO TO CHEATING, NO TO STEALING, NO TO COVETEOUSNESS, NO TO GREED.

[patrickkeyes]

I deeply appreciate your honest critique/response to Hick’s argument, an am interested to learn whether you have come across a stronger theodicy. And, have you found a convincing response to Ivan’s theodicy presented to Alyosha in The Brothers Karamazov?

[luobaide]

Thank you for such a wonderful theology!

[jamongjuice]

I cant agree more suffering shapes your soul

[jonnyw]

There’s one missing piece: we chose this

[wretchedsinnerRighteousSavior]

And call no man your father upon the earth: for one is your Father, which is in heaven.
Matthew 23:9 KJV

[wordscapes]

I am sorry - no. I grew up in Africa. Suffering creates nothing but damaged people, cruelty, and unmitigated horror.