The Loud Absence: Where is God in Suffering? | John Lennox at Harvard Medical School
John Lennox (Oxford) explores the question, "Where is God in suffering?" | Harvard Medical School, 2014 | Explore more at www.veritas.org.
Speakers:
John Lennox - Professor of Mathematics (Emeritus) at the University of Oxford
Moderator:
Michael Balboni - Instructor in Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School
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00:00:00 Introduction
00:01:06 Opening Remarks - John Lennox
00:28:23 Do the social benefits of religion make it true?
00:39:57 Is suffering a punishment from God?
00:51:16 How can God be loving if he allows suffering?
01:06:54 How can we have confidence in our beliefs when there are many other perspectives?
01:17:35 Ending
Quoting the words of my mother when I asked her, "Mom, why does God allow the good people to suffer?" (She was suffering from cancer at the time) Her response was, "God wants us to completely understand the true nature of sin, of evil. And make a rational choice throughout eternity that we will not choose that path over the one that God offers. Satan accused God of being unfair. So God allows this life to exist, even knowing that many will reject His pattern of love. But those who place their reliance on God will be given an eternal chance to live in 100% love."
This brought me to tears and rings so true!
So beautifully expressed. Thank you for sharing.
Well said
Make absolutly no sense for a non beliver....
@@swebilbo Why are you here then? Do you not believe in your own compulsion to seek God? Do you not believe in your own conscience convicting you of things you’re doing and have done that you know are wrong? Do you not believe in your own fear of death and the emptiness of this world? Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life. He can give you purpose, love, and salvation from death. Keep seeking! He loves you so much!
I love his answer to the question: on what grounds are you so certain that there is God? - Well, on what grounds am I certain that my wife loves me? Now, after 43 years of marriage I am certain that she loves me. But, there is no way that I can prove that she loves me with a mathematical equation...
@Darth Quantum she's quoting Lennox mate. Lol. It's in the video.
@Darth Quantum What answers your issues with God is that we are in a place where we just choose between giving our complete allegiance to either a creative or destructive power. We get to taste both...neither lasts forever for this is a temporary world, and freedom of choice is paramount. Would you suffer some amount to avoid a long prison sentence? What if it were eternal, involving your own concrete character. I have a kitty that we kept inside indefinitely when new ducklings came into our yard, because she is NEVER to be trusted not to eat a duckling! I'm President of my own Porch, and hunger kitties are not allowed on it when ducklings have turned up, lol! Our other tabby, LaVerne's sister, is perfectly safe with birds and is sitting on the porch right now. (A comment is always relevant if it's quoting the video, which I guess you didn't watch, just came here to quibble! :)
@Darth Quantum unless you think god has given you all the capabilities and maneuvers to alleviate your suffering...
@Darth Quantum what do you expect God to do? Intervene in every moment of every human? So there will be no suffering in this world? That sure is alot to ask; an impossible bar of dout. Would this world be better if there was NO suffering? NO struggle? No free will? Would you appreciate anything? Would you be any more than a moral robot? I understand you are upset this life has dealt you pain. We all have felt it. But you're missing the best parts, the joy. You may bring most of the pain on yourself, or just been dealt a really shitty hand. Regardless, we are a product of what we focus on. If you focus on the negative, the pain, that is who you will be. And that is what you will get from this world.
God doesn’t exist:- Richard Dawkins.
I don't know why, but this is the first video I have found myself constantly stopping and rewinding to catch what I've missed rather than continue on. I have needed this
My friend introduced me to John Lennox recently and I'm so glad he did. Dr. Lennox is an incredible voice and teacher of Christianity. LOVE HIM. I wish him all of the Lord's blessings and peace be upon him.
So true
Your so called friend must hate you! Introducing you to stupidity! .
One of the greatest defender of the Christian faith.
Boring*
Probably, also the most intelligent and logical Christian Apologist.
Torino Herrera cut the bullshit about describing a definitive unapologetic declaration and explanation as an apologist viewpoint .That line of attack to silence anyone rejecting the alternative invalid narrative the liars and deception led Zionists .
@@fpxpGetReal Dude stay in your lane before you get ran off the road.
Michael Shinosky nice words of CAUTION 😂
He exhibits joy and peace.
+Shannon Griffith i totally agree with your comment
Yes that is one of the psychological benefits of religious belief... does not mean it is true. So many prophets...so little time.
So much...
Why doesn't John boy exhibit the millions he's made from the God thing religion is a very profitable industry
A magnanimous fellow
His tone changed completely after and hour and three minutes. I am absolutely sure he was taken with empathy and it's the most compelling argument for God that I've heard.
Metaphysical blah blah
@@terencemullins1422😂😂
His tone changed to admitting he has no idea why God would allow natural evil to happen to innocent people. I am seriously disappointed in him running around this issue. It is a very fundamental question that undermines the entire concept of God being an arbiter of morality. If a person is born with all kinds of disabilities and it's God's responsibility, how can we consider him to point us to moral right and wrong? Are we supposed to just be happy that he will compensate it somehow? Why not just prevent it from happening to begin with if he is all powerful?
I can't remember if he mentioned Romans 8:22 but I believe it has a connection to the issue. Jesus making himself a part of suffering is still important to me.
@@philgriggs5803 No it seems he didn't. Jesus suffering makes the least sense of all, as he was resurrected anyway. Basically he died free of charge. He even abolished sins (but didn't, because we can still sin?) also free of charger, because he was resurrected anyway. But what does any of that have to do with the senseless natural evil that randomly strikes even the innocent?
I discovered John Lennox a couple of days ago and I'm truly grateful. The man is so likable and an inspiring speaker. His reasoning with difficult questions is brilliant for example, I've heard him say when he finds it difficult to find an answer to a complicated mathematical problem sometimes he just changes the question. I find that humorous while also being a brilliant answer. God bless him.
The world would be a better place if we had more people like John Lennox.
He has invisble enemies too! And a happy magic book with talking animals!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Can I join your cult?
@@martinkent333 Every sinner is welcomed by Jesus Christ who is lowly and humble of heart and who proclaimed Himself to be the truth. I sincerely hope that one day you will be relieved of your blindness and see Jesus for who he and what he has accomplished. Grace and peace.
THE JEWS CREATED JEHOVAH GOD IN 950 BCE, BUT CHRISTIANS ARE TOO SMUG TO TYPE BIBLE FACTS ONLINE. THE PYRAMIDS ARE MUCH OLDER THAN ABRAHAM, BUT YOU ARE SMITTEN. NOTHING WILL CONVINCE YOU THAT THE HINDU MYTHS ARE THOUSANDS OF YEARS OLDER THAN THE HEBREW MYTHS. YOU GO GIRL!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ANY EDUCATION?@@ag7075
Being likable does not make him right.
John is a lovely soul...never intrusive and very respectful to the opposing views....
Billy Ryland it’s hard to resist the genuine kindness & the playful mischief of John Lennox... love this guy
Respectful but totally dismissive - more like - do not confuse me with unpalatable facts - my mind is made up- and nothing will change my it.
@@tonyburton419 Except that he already explained that he wasn't afraid at all to listen to the Jewish people who'd rejected God, because it they were right, it wouldn't matter and he could leave his faith behind as well.
Can't believe, as an Irishman, that in 28 years of life this is the first I hear of John Lennox. Superb at articulating the importance of Christianity really has me questioning my own beliefs.
A person should always be respectful to opposing views when their position is without a jot of evidential support and indeed is wholly contrary to the evidence.
PSA: I'm from Orlando, Florida and my mom is friends with Ryder's mom (mentioned at 52:40). It has now been well over 12-14 months and by the grace of God, Ryder is not only still alive, but he is making his best recovery yet. Just wanted to mention that if anyone was interested. Prayers for both him and HO who was also mentioned here would still be appreciated. Thank you!
My goodness! This is wonderful! God bless 🙇♂️
I just came across his story today before watching this video ironically enough.
H.W. Yeah, I actually just checked in on him again. He’s still alive and overcoming by the grace of God!
@@lovemakestheworldgoround6726 If we're talking about suffering that is not caused by men (earthquakes, tornados, floods, avalanches, animal attacks, cancer, bizarre accidents, diseases, volcanos, tsunamis etc.), God cannot be both all-good and all-powerful. If he's all-powerful, he would be able to prevent such unnecessary suffering. If he's all-good, he would want to prevent suffering. Since suffering does happen, God either can't or doesn't want to prevent suffering.
@@goranmilic442 Is it good to force someone to worship you? Is it good to try to force someone to love you? If God prevented all suffering, you would be forced to worship him. Is that what you want? Do you want the freedom to choose, or do you want God to decide everything for you? Old age is also something that everyone suffers with, if they live that long, and it is not caused by men. Seems to me like your ideal would be a bit odd.
Cant not love him - one of the best minds, hearts and souls ever to live on the face of planet. ❤
Well said yester and yes
Absolutely!!!! I fully agree with you
It's actually quite easy.
lennox is an idiot, just cos he looks like a jolly snowman doesn't make him intelligent. and it doesn't make your barbaric voodoo religion true either.
yeah... no
Isn’t it strange ….? In todays world of false prophets, social media moguls, financial gurus and the like, you may be able to identify the REAL leaders and believers by the way that their conversation NEVER revolves around themselves nor their interests. Christians focus all of their efforts to help those around them - be it with food, strength, guidance, protection, etc. It is just so refreshing ! 🙏🏼❤️
What a great insight. The proof is in the pudding. We are known by our fruits. God bless you
Important thing to remember is that it is not ALL of them. True Christians, certainly. But as with anything, or anyone human, proving anything is problematic. Paul himself warns repeatedly in the NT about false prophets, teachers, preachers, wolves in sheep's clothing and so on. Still boils down to US President Reagan's warning to "Trust, but verify." And trust is exceedingly difficult when practically everyONE and everyTHING has betrayed someone to some extent. All of those "positive things" seem almost impossible to even begin. Which I guess is why Jesus has to come in the first place. Because he is the only thing, person, God...whichever who could pull it off embodied in a meat sack with subconscious urges in a constantly degenerating and failing body subject to decay and Entropy from it's very first breath. I still question though, being married now almost 4 decades, why God didn't marry Jesus off before completing his mission on Earth. Guess he would have had to have, and send down, a daughter as well.
John Lennox always manages to give his testimony . Awesome brother of Christ
We usually think that if someone breaks the law, the perpetrator should be punished. Jesus had a different idea. We are all sinners and he volunteered to be punished for all our sins ! Even though he was totally innocent, the punishment he suffered "paid" for the sins of everyone. Some Christians think that his father dreamt up this mad idea and organised it !
@@tedgrant2 If we're talking about suffering that is not caused by men (earthquakes, tornados, floods, avalanches, animal attacks, cancer, bizarre accidents, diseases, volcanos, tsunamis etc.), God cannot be both all-good and all-powerful. If he's all-powerful, he would be able to prevent such unnecessary suffering. If he's all-good, he would want to prevent suffering. Since suffering does happen, God either can't or doesn't want to prevent suffering.
@@goranmilic442 He doesn't care about my blocked drain. He doesn't care about the bruise on my left leg. He doesn't care about the muddle-east crisis. He doesn't even care about the millions for children who die before their 5th birthday.
@@tedgrant2 Then he's not all-good.
@monty_hall You can argue all day long about how Superman can catch Lois Lane falling without hurting her. But the fact remains, he didn't hurt her.
I must say one thing, whenever I see Prof Lennox speak, apart from his mind, he always shows REAL empathy. In this speech more than others, maybe, because he talks about pain. But his empathy is real, and I have no doubt. I can't say the same about Dawkins, who connects to his principles, but to me sounds like the "lumbering robot" he so much aspires to be.
+Adriano Bulla I could not agree more with your statement, I too feel the same way.
I was about to say the exact same thing dude. keep it real
That's funny I didn't get love from you before Kyle I got judgement...
Kyle Anthony Kyle That's not the comment I was referring to but that's cool...I have found though that your intolerance to the value of yoga meditation is not a true reflection of the teachings of our beloved Lord Jesus....
Kyle Anthony There you go insulting my maturity or lack of......Without getting involved in immature rhetoric pingpong lets live and let live....It was from Forty years of studying and applying these techniques (you seem to know nothing about) that brought me many experiences of God and a greater understanding of the teachings of Jesus....There is a book out called "The Second Coming of Christ" by Paramahansa Yogananda....you should read it ......take care
The way he treated the questions on suffering (48:40 - 1:06:50) was really awesome
Some women are so beautiful they are held together by the softest kisses of the Holy Spirit: joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Be gentle.
What a treat to hear an "Irishman" talk about God. I mean this in all sincerity. The type of man you hope to meet in heaven.
There is no heaven! Death is final! .
What an amazing discussion. Thanks for uploading this. This is my first time hearing about John Lennox. What a great human being.
You should hear him debating Dawkins, Shawn. It is quite brilliant. The more I see and hear Lennox, the bigger a fan I become.
He’s got this irresistible, gravitational pull doesn’t he? Love John Lennox
Shawn... yes, a truly great human being....
Dr. Lennox is Probably one of the most intellectual minds on the Plannet
Now you know.
Whether you believe or not one has to appreciate the wisdom and humility of this man !!
Wisdom? Bad joke!
@@active285 What's your point?
Absolutely
I don't have to appreciate anything about this man.
He's very clever.
Been watching him every night for 2 years helps me sleep and answers allot of my questions i could never figure out
Pain is something that we have no control over; but we always have control over how we suffer in responds to the pain.
Correct, we are not alone.... suffering is redemptive....
I have trouble with anger and resentment and turning away from Jesus in prolonged debilitating suffering. I am unable to handle it without others prayers and support and crying out to God for help to believe and find the joy of Jesus.
This man is like a Malcolm Muggeridge, and seems deeper even than C.S. Lewis.
John Lennox plenty of respect for you Sir ...you inspire me
Stupidity does inspire you? .
The last 10 minutes is the best. It's a completely different God view then how the majority of the world sees God. In my opinion, having suffered much, I see suffering as a very special pathway to communicating with God, you get quieter and He gets louder. God's outpouring of His love is immeasurable and can not be expressed in mere words. As birthing a child is full of pain, the resulting love is a billion times worth the suffering. There is no greater joy in this world than to know Him. peace.
mkmason2002 indeed!!! I have listened to the last 10 mins over and over again! It’s gold
True. You speak the truth as it IS The Word. Praise him in all ways and all things for he truly is that which gives to all those who seek him. Blessed is the word that has been testified here and forever.
I was thinking exactly the same about the end of video. How precious it is to notice others withch is in the faith. Lennox is a good servant of God.
Go tell a terminal cancer patient that their suffering is a special pathway to some "god"...
Alex North It’s such words as yours that cause the suffering of so many. They are NOT terminal cancer patients, they are living people facing their own mortality. You speak as if death is all their ever is and was; it’s no wonder you are so angry. I know all too well the losses of cancer, suicide, batten’s disease, epilepsy, murder, and some even accidents. Your anger has no place in the knowledge of life but to testify of death and the lie in it; per your own words, their disposition, and intent in them. The problem here is in the understanding that life was before you and continues after you. It would be an honor to be able to speak and spend time with someone facing a potentially terminal disease. The last thing I would hope to find myself doing is going online and ranting and raving, but then again; everything happens for a reason.
Beautiful talk: I come back to this every now and then.
I was lucky enough to hear him live some years ago, at the CSLewis Institute in Annapolis. It was such a great night 😊
What a wonderful man. Christ shines in him
Yes and has blessed him with treasure. But of course, treasure on earth is a handicap. He should build up treasure in Heaven, not on earth. It is very difficult for a camel to go through the eye of a needle.
@@tedgrant2 should he be poor then
@@tsi940 As far as we know, Jesus had no money and he told his disciples to take none. "Provide neither gold, nor silver, nor brass in your purses" (Matthew 10:9) I guess they didn't need purses at all !
@@tedgrant2 k
@@tedgrant2 I don't even think that you believe what you are saying. Someone calling Lennox a treasure is a figure of speech.
John is a good man who explains god in a way i understand
What a lovely speaker and man of wisdom. Enjoyed listening to him very much. Thank you for this video.
He speaks without a murmur, no unnecessary pauses, with so much confidence and compelling words. He's a monument in time. Never to be erased or forgotten.
John Lennox makes me cry... what he says moves me...his certainty of God's Love... I feel loved at that moment, when a moment before I felt unloved and unlovable...
“Love means loving that which is completely unlovable or it means nothing at all.” GK Chesterton
You are loved and understood. Always. Find your path and do what you came here to do. All of you as you are. Particularly the parts you think unlovable! 😊Love thyself and love others equally. There is a lot out there who needs your love I am sure. "Ask and you shall receive". His path for you may not be the most fashionable either. On looking back (20/20 vision) it was not obvious but here I am. Glad I finally caught on and said YES. From polite, gentle girl with 3 university degrees(2.5 actually) to one who helps teens who were abused regain their dignity and functionality with love and a "sergeant major" attitude! At the end, it is the best I did. My humble legacy: a few kids who love life. And the certainty I chose right. Keep well. 😊
@deborahkate1849 Lennox utters meaningless! The imaginary god of the bible hates humans! This evil monster cannot love! .
A wolf insheeps clothing.
don't cry he;'s an idiot and he has you fooled.
A brilliant holy spirit filled talk.
Pity the holy spirit could not save the lives of children dying in traffic accidents. The holy spirit is too busy being famous and great. Such a crock of absolute shit.
willzer808 Address Christianity, not Catholicism circa 1400 CE ;) The Bible explains the situation with pain and suffering, if you reject the explanation, so be it!
singlecellorganism13 Yeah I reject it, it's cockology
willzer808 But you are not right in saying this, so I will answer you: God is far greater than mortal man. Why do you complain against Him? Is it because he did not answer all your words? For God speaks once and a second time, But no one pays attention,
+willzer808 "Pity the holy spirit could not save the lives of children dying in traffic accidents." God can do everything. However, once you accept that God's purpose for human life is not that we stay in this temporal life indefinitely, but to join God in eternal life, it won't seem like some overwhelming contradiction anymore.
I love John Lennox I could listen to him for hours
@Psicólogo Miguel Cisneros If we are sincere truth seekers then God will lead us to the truth, or as it was in my case, lead the truth to us. Acts 17:27: James 1:5-8; 4:8. Jesus said, "keep on seeking, and you will find." Math 7:7. He also said that "you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” John 8:32. Free from the falsehoods that you alluded to. There have been many falsehoods that have been taught in the name of God and religion but we need to cut through these falsehoods with the sword of the spirit which is God's word - the Bible. Things like the "Trinity", the immortality of the soul, and the hellfire doctrine, are unscriptural doctrines that have been taught to millions and have misrepresented God. In order for us to get the truth though, our spiritual soil - our heart condition must be right. Math 13:3-23, We need to have the 3 Hs, we need to be HUMBLE, HONEST with ourselves, and HUNGRY to get to know and please God. Math 5:6 www.jw.org/en/library/magazines/g200611/Why-Does-God-Permit-Suffering/
Iv recently started listening to your interviews since I heard you on the hoover institute interview with Behe and Meyer... Thanks for quoting 1 John 5v13 for your confidence in God.. Thanks for your faith and how simple you explain and how compassionate and loving you are. Only Jesus can transform us to that.
I listened to that interview. It was beyond brilliant.
May the light of his wisdom shine on to eternity
John Lennox is man with gentle spirit as well with the knowledge of God. His beautiful life of humility is a result of his living relationship with Jesus Christ. His faith led him towards this transformation.
And a realisation that he could make more money from Religion than Mathematics.
What about his beautiful life of living in luxury on millions made from the God thing
@@mick1gallagher Of course he needs the money to fund his mission.
Did money have anything to do pretty John's love of god
@@tedgrant2 if he had his own private jet like some of these false preachers in America I suppose that would be OK with you're twisted way of thinking
What a man! “It actually works” Amen John.
Praise God for the life and faith of Prof. Lennox. I've heard that part of acceptance and merit in the final minutes from his other interviews, but it was today that it hit home. That is God accepts us and then molds us over time through repeated forgiveness until He perfects His way in us. We just can't fathom that as humans, because we are naturally incapable of such great love. And also, we share our faith not because we hope for acceptance, but because we have already been accepted. Praise God.
“ That is God accepts us and then molds us over time through repeated forgiveness until He perfects His way in us” This is something I recently discovered while reading Saint Francis de Sales INTRODUCTION TO THE DEVOUT LIFE. Recommended!
just a quick reminder that the first amendment conflicts with the first commandment "thou shalt worship whoever you want" and that the declaration of human rights gives ME more rights than god. is it annoying to you that the satanic temple has the SAME RIGHTS as your church?
God excepts us, and then molds us overtime through repeated forgiveness until he protects his way and us. We just can’t fathom that as humans, because we are naturally in capable of such great love. And we share our faith not because we hope for acceptance, but because we have already been accepted by God. Just like when a child is born. These beautiful thoughts that really hit home are magnificent. John Lennox is a gift to the world. It is people like him that give me hope that the world will become a better place the way God wants it to be.
……..accepts us
@@HarryNicNicholas Thou shalt Worship God Yahweh and Him only is the First Commandment. Obviously Satanic Church changed that.
Our small minds will never be enough to properly discern God’s thoughts
Oh my goodness! Mr John Lennox, sir, you moved me to tears with your explanation of your confidence in God 🙇♂️ you are a beautiful soul and I'm so glad to have discovered your talks... My family has been through a very traumatic time last year and when it is battle of life and death it is only God who can see us through. How great is our God 🙇♂️ Peace be with you all.
I think you'll find he's doing it for the money.
@@tedgrant2 spot on everyone of these people are at this for money and the fool can't see this
@@mick1gallagher The fool says in his heart that there is no God. Psalm 53:1 Bible
@@tedgrant2 What a thing to say to someone who just explained he or she is going through a traumatic time but found comfort in what Lennox said. Why try to tear down that source of comfort, especially when you aren't offering something to replace it? On a different note, how do you know he's doing it for the money? Or how do you know he's not donating some of what he earns to charity?
@@kennethsathia7934 Great, doesn't prove that a god exists though. And which god? There are 3000+ to choose from.
I respect this man, and the Christ in him and how he represents Him 👌🏽
One after the other, he answers every question with a silent invitation for us to get to know God by experiencing a relationship with Jesus! Hence, this is probably the best Q&A session I have ever heard in my life! Praise God for being so kind and so patient with our demands and misrepresentations of Him!!! So where is He, God, when it hurts? He is right here with me and right there with anyone who dares to ask Him to come and stay!
Dr. Lonnoxes lectures are timeless treasures.
Lennox utters meaningless gibberish! .
@@rolfme5499Even the most infamous atheist the late Christopher Hitchens (Hitchens even called himself as an anti theist which was a complete admission of God’s existence by saying that he(Hitchens) is against God) loved this man!
I really like the way of how he describes his points and how he prove it He such a brilliant man !!!
"what makes you so sure...confident?" . His explanation ....The Gospel! 🙏😌
I had the privilege of meeting John Lennox here in Canada years ago, brilliant and well thought.
Wow. Hard to put into words how much wisdom, grace, and gospel truth John Lennox put into his answers to the professors questions. Such a powerful video. So thankful for the way Jesus has built up John Lennox to be such an amazing steward of Gospel truth. Truly inspiring.
just a quick reminder that the first amendment conflicts with the first commandment "thou shalt worship whoever you want" and that the declaration of human rights gives ME more rights than god. is it annoying to you that the satanic temple has the SAME RIGHTS as your church? lennox is a daft old duffer.
Boy, I needed this. Coming into the New Year with estranged family members and other loved ones is shattering. I know there are other people going through this, as well, and I firmly believe it is the enemy looking to divide and conquer, making talks such as this one all the more necessary for the times in which we live to counteract that treachery. Lennox's heart on the matter of suffering is even more vital than his mind, which is formidable by itself. But it is the way his face lights up when speaking of his wife, or seeing his head hang ever slightly when discussing his niece, his humility expressed by admitting to not having all of the answers, yet reminding everyone that God was and is in the midst of our suffering with us, and the act of the crucifixion and resurrection has provided us the only way to one day rise above it all. Lennox did not bring up human beings' original sin, nor God's option of free will to choose Him or not, as well as Satan's interference, all of which spawned suffering on Earth to begin with, but everything else he spoke to and showed empathy toward more than made up for these obvious oversights. Also, he has mentioned them in other talks, especially debates. The more I see John Lennox, the more I truly see the Heart of God working in him. That is powerful, meaningful, and wonderful. Thank you, Veritas Forum, for sharing another lovely post.
Do you still believe in god??
@@victorbela5317 What Lenox did was to strengthen our faith in God in Jesus Christ by taking part in the suffering in the world showing that He is with us He understands us and there is hope.
We should give up our literal talk of "satan" and other mythological elements in the Bible... There is loving God and there is evil, which we can not fully explain (at least rationally), but we can today can see complex phenomena in our Psyche, when people are ill, like Bipolar Disorder, etc. The evil is deeply connected with chosing and free will, etc. and It's something like snowball of our little and big evils... The Good also works in an accumulative way wether we see it or not... Read Nicolas Berdyaev "The destiny of Man" Brilliant Classic on all these questions!!!
@@victorbela5317 Of course!!
@@victorbela5317i still believe we are not robotic God is not a robot we have freedom to choose the moral good or bad It is In suffering that we see God love at work among the caregivers mothers love humans are capable of such Love and this life is a for shadow of a loving God We are not robotics
The people calling John Lennox a fool and delusional based on what? Their opinion. The true nature of a critic is revealed when they attack the person instead of his opinion. If PHD's are so easy to get why isnt everyone with one?
Professor Lennox's expertise is mathematics. I have known people who have had PhD's in math. I realize why atheists attack him. They may not have actually MET a person who has a PhD in mathematics. I'm not saying they are "superhuman." Well, maybe I am.... Sanjosemike (no longer in CA)
@J w Rubbish....it would be very satisfying for our lives to have some kind of cosmic meaning. No evidence for it... which is why the values I have stem from this, and the tradgedy of the human condition..we are all in the same boat, and need compassion for our plight. Lennox was indoctrinated from birth, and is a living example of how some are so attached to their meaning making fairy tales that it is impossible to get them to see their incredulity.
@J w Never asserted all theists were - strawman. The truth is that NO ONE knows the answer as to why there is something rather than nothing. But many claim to do so. Like you probably. And all theists. Ridiculous to throw some individuals names at me,-I could easily do the same in reverse. You are wrong, - I repeat, it would be very satisfying for myself to be convinced that our lives have cosmic significance, but sadly & painfully, - it does seem unlikely. I hope for some real evidence for this is discovered,-but until then, & doubt this will ever happen, I will hold a compassionate recognition for the human condition. Even for Lennox.
@@tonyburton419 Perhaps it is impossible to know "why there is something rather than nothing." But we do know that "something" and even more important...time....did occur about 14.5 billion years ago. There is no indication of anything before it. We also know that unless we "observe" and take a measurement from the quantum state of reality, it will REMAIN as no more than probabilities. Materialists have tried to REFUTE this for the last 80 years. Unfortunately (for them) EVERY experiment they tried worked against Materialism. WE must decide what to measure. The Universe REFUSES to do that for us. It appears that we exist to collapse indeterminate waves into physical reality. That should be close enough to say that we have "purpose" in the Universe. Sanjosemike (no longer in CA)
He is delusional.
My hero, John Lennox - I thank the Lord for this man's wisdom and intellect! His talk is comforting and insightful.
Dr Lennox speaks with sureness and unwavering certainty in his discourse and yet there is a sense of tenderness when he converses about our Heavenly Father. Dr Lennox has a very delightful way of glorifying God. May our Lord and God and Savior bless him always and continue to strengthen him in his good works! Glory to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit!!
He's a great and refined soul, capable of looking at, and expanding understandings of the most difficult concepts and conditions. I truly appreciate him and his generosity of spirit and mind. Rare...
Always starts with a fallacy and adds flesh to the bones to fatten it out.
@@derekardito2032 Atheists literally always say its a fallacy but I bet if I ask you you're either gonna say "Its obvious" and not say what the fallacy was, or you're gonna make up something on the spot and sound like an idiot.
@@derekardito2032 What fallacy?
@@ag7075 has any "GOD" ever been proven to actually exist?
@@derekardito2032 The evidence is sufficient for the God of the Bible: creation and the God-man, Jesus Christ, who rose from the dead are but 2 evidences commonly cited by Christians. What I find interesting is how the love of sin and self blinds many people to the evidence God so graciously supplies.
Appreciate yall airing this! John Lennox has been instrumental in the development of our worldview and our approach to answering the tough questions.
What I know is Jesus loves me so much.
Each time I talk to God about my pains He responds with amazing assurance in a a wonderful language which sounds like, "shammah! Shammah! Shammah!! This means "I am right there with you!" Thank you so much Lord Jesus for your Holy spirit.
If god talks back to you, it's time to see a doctor. Auditory hallucinations are not a good thing.
Mr Lennox is a brilliant Irish man
He is amazing! Keep preaching the word:-)
Forget about those fake preachers out there this man is the genuine article, touching so many with sheer simplicity and depth of understanding.
Brilliant....simply brilliant.....what a great great man of God ....thank you John
If we as humans had the brains to understand everything and why everything happens we would be as clever as God . Thats why certain people such as John lennox are chosen by God to understand more than most to teach us about the bible . In the end its down to choice and faith . Without either there would be absolutely nothing to live for , or die for . I'm so glad I have faith in God and made the right choice
Praise God our living God.
Me too 😇
God bless you John Lennox: A biblical and rational defender of the Christian Faith.
What I wouldn't give to be able to explain faith with his clarity and intelligence.
I Love listening to Dr Lennox. Such a brilliant mind.
So inspiring and full of God’s love. I found myself clapping my hands with the audience at the end.
Thank you Dr. Lennox, I am so moved by what you shared about suffering, and choice.The longer I live, and seek God, I find Him, and I do not blame or reject God as in past when suffering knocks at my door. I know God loves me, and this gives me the motive every day to get up and make a difference in the world, thank you for your humility, and compassion, it is evident
There are no gods! If you have an imaginary buddy, you should see a shrink! .
Glory to God for raising such brilliant individuals
One of the most brilliant minds. God bless John Lennox.
The proof of the pudding is in the eating. Brilliant! Loved this.
No the proof of the pudding in seeing and making then eating. If i starts to believe that iron man is real that doesn't make iron man is real😂😂
Wow! Amazing discussion... I am very thankful for this Man of God... brilliant! Ps. 115:1 Not unto us O' Lord, not unto us, but to your name give glory, because of your mercy, because of your truth!
This should be required viewing by every church youth group in the nation.
I have stage 4 cancer and have never been sad about it because I know where I'll be in eternity !! HOPE in Jesus Christ and eternity with Him in PARADISE is something an atheist can never ever claim and I feel so very sorry for that.
You believe in fairy tales! I am sorry for that! I prefer knowledge and reality! .
This man is amazing! I have listened to about 20 of his lectures and learn something new every time.
It is worth the listening to the end where he tells about his confidence in God in all circumstances over the years.
John 16:33 “These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.”
What an amazing talk. Brilliant and so lovingly thought provoking.
what a nice man. such a kind energy he has. very wise talk.
lol, lennox is a nit wit.
God blessed you!!!
I love this man! I never tire of hearing him speak. My heart is always touched. Thank you!
The easy of answers and love that flow from John’s heart is utterly inspiring, comforting and real. I was beyond blessed to hear this!❤❤❤❤❤❤
Yes, he is an amazing speaker. My problem is he never ever gives us any good testable verifiable evidence for any God or anything supernatural. Its all just bloviation.
@@johnhammond6423 I find for me the only evidence I truly believe is experiencing it myself. From and in my own skin… (when “I” was at the end of my rope). I can only speak for myself…. But that’s how my faith and relationship came to be. I had to apply what I read, then test it, really TEST it and you know what? Now I believe too. Good luck with your searching, and your testing, truly👍❤️
@@johnhammond6423 Maybe research all the Biblical prophecy that has been fullfilled? Specifically, Israel becoming a nation again... Theres a good book. Evidence That Demands a Verdict: Life-Changing Truth for a Skeptical World BY: JOSH MCDOWELL, SEAN MCDOWELL
Thank you John Lennox. So wonderful final statement.
What an amazing human being this man is, he speaks the truth in so many ways
9 years and I missed this great KZhead?!
Such a wonderful conversation that I have listened to this again and again. Thank you all!
I love you brother John Lennox. You are a very rich resource that helps us respond to intellectual minds that have decided to slipp away from God's Grace .
I appreciate his efforts to explain this conundrum-- which is not merely theoretical for me--Being so sick 😞 ( in fact, only getting sicker), tho I beg a seemingly deaf Heaven to heal me....
I’m so sorry your sick. I totally understand I was an ICU nurse that professionally & lovingly cared for all my pts for over 12yrs until I got a virus that attacked my heart muscle & damaged it. Then went on to get 3 debilitating chronic pain conditions over the next 19yrs. I’m mostly home bound & doctors don’t have answers or treatment for the chronic pain disease. Although I continue to take it day by day & I see that God is close to me. He answer’s my prayers & surprises me with good gifts daily. That being said I do believe that this is not our home. That Jesus is real & so is heaven. That death when it comes will be the ultimate healing because I believe the Bible. My last breath on earth my next breath will be in the arms of my savior. All my pain, exhaustion, a 51yr old body that is more feeble than my grama was at 95 will be completely renewed. I will live in my new body & God will wipe every tear from my eye. I will live for eternity in a perfect place and I will be made new in the twinkling of an eye. I hope you can find hope.
I ponder the question of suffering often. No one can answer why it happens. I dont think its a punishment from God although in the Old Testament times it may have been. i'm slowly learning that I just need to trust God and try and obey. God be with you Kathleen.
Thankyou Brother John my family is from Northern Ireland.... The lord cause His Face to shine apon you.....
When we are suffering God is in the same place when we are flourishing... In our HEART ❤
I have a strong testimony that God wants us to learn and to grow and to strengthen our relationship with him throughout our lives. I know that as we seek knowledge and understanding and we ask God for help, He leads us to the sources of truth that he wants us to receive. I consider myself a devoted follower of Christ. However, lately I’ve struggled with understanding why God allows so much suffering. This beautiful man and his words have enlightened my understanding and brought me some much needed comfort. I hope that I will have the opportunity to meet this extraordinary man, in this life or the next, and thank him for spreading the truth and light of Christ’s teachings. 💕 Thank you #JohnLennox. I look forward to learning more from your tremendous example.
Listening to John Lennox brought tears to my eyes. It is bad enough mankind go through suffering due to illnesses, diseases, natural disasters and human carelessness, why then would governments inflict unnecessary suffering on their citizens and PEACE loving people of the world with intentional killings in conflicts and wars?
Sinful hearts in those who wish to rule, overpower, eliminate others. But don't forget that there are just wars, waged against those sinful lusts and desires, in order to spare the innocent and to preserve a more righteous way of life. Yes, innocents die, and God grieves with us. But no struggle to preserve a more honorable group is without cost. God himself commanded such wars, in his holy sense of love, and in a full appreciation of the consequences....both the desired and the tragic.
Cuanta admiracion siento por el Dr. Lennox. Una sabiduría milenaria impresionante.
Does anyone who plans events such as these, ever allow sufficient time for questions and answers? It seems that they never do. Such a pity because this speaker has a marvelous gift to share. I truly enjoyed his presentation and found it both revealing and thought-provoking in many aspects.
This mans answers are poetry
We are all bound by love. Thats the uni a verse. Song. We all sing
Great show great speaker. Terrific questions. Fascinating and encouraging, hope shines through.
Such a great human being….just love this man.
He always helps people who already believe.
Funny how humans are prompt to declare God responsible for whatever bad thing happens and yet so few of us have enough sense to praise the Lord when something good happens. It's vanity, that's what it is, our emptiness echoing itself.
That is dumb. You dont praise someone who does so many bad things. No matter what good they caused.
Good point. Something bad? It's God's fault. Something good? We take all the glory!!!
John is amazing. Hopefully I can meet him one day.
Same! But "blessed those who can't see me personally but believe in me". God sees your heart.
I just love listening to him.
This was absolutely AMAZING! Gotta watch it again.
Just saw this last night with my wife and we agreed it was a Masterpiece.....Just wish this kind of thought was taught is Public Schools.
John Lennox makes a good point as always!!
Amen Dr. Lennox, amen. That's real preaching in my opinion. I thank God I was able to hear this.
You are really the one who has been sent by God to declare the truth about Him. God bless you. Have a great Sunday
Thank you and have a great Sunday too. God bless!!