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Book Review
If I were God, I'd end all the pain
John Dickson; Matthias Media, 2002
Review by Jenni van Wageningen
John Dickson grew up in a stable and loving home where spiritual issues
were never discussed. Family members had a vague and general belief in a
God who somehow kept the world going, but who slipped up from time to
time in his management.
When his father was killed in a plane crash 9 year old John began asking
questions about why terrible things happen and why there is pain and
suffering. Later in his life, he became a Christian and he now has a
full life speaking about the Gospel in churches, schools and
universities
There are many Christian books which tackle this large and often
perplexing issue. This one is different in several respects.
First of all, the author is Australian and the context for many of his
explanations and points is Australian. This does make a difference.
The book is also quite concise for such a large subject, only 70 pages.
It is succinctly written with straightforward clarity and plenty of
punch.
Throughout the book Dickson compares and contrasts what other world faiths - Buddhism Islam, Hinduism and atheism - say about pain, evil and suffering. This wider context is a very valuable feature.
Dickson believes that while the Bible does not offer a full explanation for sin and suffering, it is definitely the best explanation, and that the biblical perspective is not only true, but also liveable.
He points out that the effect of sin is very evident in the flaws we experience in creation and the physical realm. Yet unlike other religions which discount the physical and the material and see Nirvana as the ultimate goal, God has promised that this world and our bodies will one day be renewed.
Moreover, a God who has suffered pain firsthand and who identifies with
our experiences and feelings is unique to Christianity.
I highly recommend this very readable book. It is dotted with
interesting and relevant anecdotes and examples, and Dickson's arguments
are unswervingly biblical. If you are stumped for a convincing Christian
answer on sin and suffering, this book will certainly provide it in
clear and straightforward words and ideas.
The next time someone tells you that he or she cannot believe in a loving God because of all the pain and evil in the world, you have a simple choice - either come up with some of the points Dickson makes or just hand over the book for the person to read!
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