THE ONE BIG QUESTION
The God of love in a world of suffering
By Michael Baughen. CWR. 144 pages. £7.99
ISBN 978 1 853 455 728
Michael Baughen approaches the problem of suffering in a warmly pastoral way, rather than attempting to provide an apologetic.
He begins with the gospel, the cross reminds us that God is with us in our suffering. He also points to the future, to the ‘day of God’ when we will have resurrection bodies. He says: ‘In the memorable words from Narnia, the term will be over and the holidays will have begun’ (p.57).
But the author’s overarching emphasis is on the present, and the need to deepen our assurance of the love of God. He gives a particularly fine treatment of 2 Corinthians 12.1-10 towards the end, and presents a robust defence against the cruelty of the false gospel of health and wealth.
In dealing with Paul’s ‘thorn in the flesh’, the author picks up on the subject of healing. He writes: ‘Hopefully, most Christians will stand with Paul in advocating a balance between praying for healing and being open to God’s will if healing is not the way. Though we see many touches from heaven on earth which will encourage us, we must accept that we are still pilgrims, en route for “home”’ (p.134).
In short, this is not intended as a detailed theological treatment of the problem of suffering. For those wanting a detailed apologetic, something like Don Carson’s How Long, O Lord? would be more suitable. But for those wanting an immensely readable, well-illustrated, and comforting pastoral approach to suffering, this is your book!
Paul Williams,
pastor, Swindon Evangelical Church, Wiltshire
