Wonder of the Cross

Description:When considering and confronting the problem of evil, we may be asking the wrong question: Why is there evil in the world if God is good and powerful? It may be wrong because it smuggles in an unbiblical premise: God can and should use his coercive power to relieve suffering since he is both good and able. But what if coercive power does not work to accomplish God's goals? This book is an investigation into the possibility that the noncoercive power of the Cross must be at the center of this issue, and that the Cross could reform this question. We could ask, instead, How is God destroying evil and suffering--and why is he taking so long? The answer to this reframed question might be: He is using evil and suffering to destroy evil and suffering for His People; this is how long it takes. While not a "solution" to the problem of evil, could this help us learn to delight in God in a world in which evil and suffering seem at times so relentless?Endorsements:"Shenk's book belongs firmly in the field of theological responses to evil and suffering. . . . [It] presents us with a meditation that is philosophically acute, intellectually rigorous, and historically informed. It is also honest and humble, not offering a 'solution,' but a series of theological proposals based on a profound reflection on Scripture, a deft handling of philosophical concepts, and a careful consideration of a great breadth of the Christian theological tradition."--From the Foreword by Simon Oliver"Understanding God's purpose for suffering has been a source of mystery for many Christians. This book leads the reader down the road of reality between the guardrails of hope and joy."--Michael Frank Sabo, President, Christian Leadership Institute"The Wonder of the Cross is a bold and provocative exploration of the reality of evil and suffering in light of the character and purposes of God. . . . This is a Christ-centered and cross-centered proposal. It is both philosophically astute and historically grounded. But above all, Shenk is biblically shaped, pastorally relevant, and hope-filled. While not everyone will agree with every part of Shenk's proposal, all will profit from engaging with this discussion of the power of the cross and its role in the conquest of evil and suffering."--Steven C. Roy, Associate Professor of Pastoral Theology, Trinity Evangelical Divinity SchoolAbout the Contributor(s):Richard Shenk (PhD, University of Wales, Lampeter) is an Adjunct Professor at Bethlehem College and Seminary where he teaches theology and a pastor at Village Church (both in the vicinity of Minneapolis, Minnesota).