Start conversations (3 mins.) FROM HOUSE TO HOUSE. (lmd lesson 5 point 4).
Setting: During house-to-house witnessing, the publisher talks with a neighbor about suffering in the world, listens to his opinion, and uses a Bible text to show him that God is not the cause of bad things. Finally, he agrees to return to explain what the Bible says about the origin of suffering.
Publisher: Hello, good morning! My name is [name]. We're briefly visiting our neighbors to get their opinion on a topic that affects us all. Tell me, when you watch the news and see so many wars, diseases, and tragedies, have you ever wondered why God allows these things to happen?
Assistant: Yes, that's true. I think that, in some way, God is involved in all of this. Since people are behaving worse and worse, perhaps he allows these misfortunes to punish them and teach them a lesson.
Publisher: I understand what you're saying. When we see so much suffering, it's natural to wonder why it happens and who is responsible. Furthermore, many people think that, since God is all-powerful, He could prevent these tragedies.
Assistant: Exactly. If he can control everything, why wouldn't he be responsible for what happens?
Publisher: That's a reasonable question. But did you know that the Bible helps us understand how God views suffering? Look at what James 1:13 says. Could you please read it?
Assistant: Of course. It says: “Let no one say during a trial, ‘God is testing me.’ For no one can test God with evil, nor does he test anyone.”
Publisher: Thank you very much. What strikes you about these words?
Assistant: He says that God doesn't test anyone with bad things.
Publisher: That's right. This text teaches us that God doesn't cause misfortunes to punish us or teach us a lesson. Therefore, when someone loses a loved one or suffers an illness, they shouldn't think that God is making them pay for something. On the contrary, we can be sure that he is not the cause of our suffering.
Assistant: That's reassuring. But then, if God doesn't cause these things, why doesn't he do something to stop them?
Publisher: I understand. We all long for the day when there is no more suffering. And the beautiful thing is that the Bible explains why there are so many problems and what God will do to solve them. How about another day I show you in just a few minutes who is behind so much suffering and what God will do to end it?
Assistant: Yes, I'd like to know. I'm usually home on Thursday mornings.
Publisher: Perfect. Then I'll stop by on Thursday and we'll see what the Bible says. Thank you so much for your time. Have a great day!
Assistant: Thanks all the same.
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