Source: (1999) In God and the victim: Theological reflections on evil, victimization, justice, and forgiveness, ed. Lisa Barnes Lampman and Michelle D. Shattuck, 36-60. Grand Rapids, MI: William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company; and Neighbors Who Care: Washington, D.C.
Using stories from real life and his experiences as a counselor, Dan B. Allender points out that encounters with evil acts and people can radically challenge our sense of order and meaning, including our faith in God. With this in mind, he explores how evil forces us to examine ourselves and God by focusing on three issues: (1) the heart of evil; (2) the horror of evil; and (3) the hope of redemption from evil. Evil damages and harms what is good in human existence, especially faith, hope, and love. Victims of evil experience powerlessness, betrayal, and deep ambivalence. Yet God offers the promise of redemption, leading to the possibility of increase in faith, hope, and love. Thus, through this chapter, Allender aims to help victims understand themselves better, to understand God better, and even to love God better.
Your donation helps Prison Fellowship International repair the harm caused by crime by emphasizing accountability, forgiveness, and making amends for prisoners and those affected by their actions. When victims, offenders, and community members meet to decide how to do that, the results are transformational.
Donate Now