In today’s study, we’ll explore the concepts of good and evil through a biblical lens. My name is Joseph Watson, and I’m excited to dive into the Scriptures with you. Let’s begin with a foundational verse from 2 Timothy 2:15: “Study to show yourself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” This verse reminds us of the importance of understanding where we stand in life and faith, and how studying the Word of God helps us discern the right path.
The Contrast Between Good and Evil
God created a world full of goodness, but evil entered through temptation, as we read in Genesis 1. The Bible shows us that light and darkness, good and evil, righteousness and wickedness, spirit and flesh are in constant conflict. God gives us hope, but at times, evil may seem overwhelming. Understanding these forces is essential to walking the path of righteousness.
The Strong’s Concordance defines good as something “beautiful, cheerful, and bountiful,” while evil is associated with “misery, sorrow, and affliction.” We all seek goodness, not only for ourselves but also for our families, friends, and those who are lost. We want to be the best versions of ourselves, cheerful and full of joy, as we spread peace to others.
The Creation of Goodness
Let’s revisit the story of creation in Genesis 1. God created the heavens and the earth, and at every step, He saw that His creation was good. From the light that divided day from night to the fish of the sea and the animals on land, everything God made was beautiful and good. When God created man in His image, He gave him the responsibility to care for the earth and all living creatures. This divine purpose reflects the goodness that God intended for humanity.
The Fall: Temptation and the Introduction of Evil
However, in Genesis 3, we encounter the serpent’s temptation of Eve. The serpent questioned God’s command, saying, “You will not surely die… you will be like God, knowing good and evil.” This act of disobedience introduced sin into the world, and both Adam and Eve faced the consequences. They shifted blame, Adam blamed Eve, and Eve blamed the serpent. This story illustrates the impact of evil: it leads us away from God’s goodness and results in shame and guilt.
Overcoming Evil with God’s Word
As Christians, we are not immune to temptation. However, 1 John 2:14-15 provides us with encouragement: “I have written unto you, young men, because you are strong, and the word of God abides in you, and you have overcome the wicked one.” We must not love the world, for if we do, the love of the Father is not in us. The “lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life” are forces that draw us away from God, but abiding in His Word gives us the strength to resist them.
The Deceitful Nature of the Human Heart
In Jeremiah 17:9-10, we are reminded that “the heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked.” It is only God who can search the heart and judge us according to our ways. Without God, we are prone to weakness and failure. But through Christ, we find strength. Jesus is our example and Savior, leading us toward righteousness.
Walking in the Spirit
In Galatians 5, Paul contrasts the works of the flesh with the fruits of the Spirit. The works of the flesh include adultery, hatred, and drunkenness, while the fruits of the Spirit are love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. As Christians, we are called to walk in the Spirit, which allows us to live a life of goodness, not evil. By cultivating these fruits, we demonstrate the character of Christ in our lives.
God’s Judgment and Our Choice
Ezekiel 18:19-23 speaks to the justice of God. Every person is judged according to their actions. If a wicked person repents, they will be forgiven, and their sins will not be remembered. This shows the depth of God’s mercy. He desires for everyone to turn from their wickedness and choose life. But if a righteous person turns to sin, their previous good deeds will not save them. Each day, we have the choice to follow God’s way or turn toward sin.
Let’s reflect on Ecclesiastes 12:13-14: “Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man. For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good or whether it be evil.” Our task is simple: seek God, follow His commandments, and choose the path of goodness. By studying His Word and walking in His Spirit, we grow closer to Him and strengthen our ability to resist evil.
If you have questions or need guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out for prayer and support or watch our Bible study online. Let us walk together in the light, seeking to do good and encouraging others along the way. God bless.
Joseph Watson, an elder in the Warriors for Christ, was baptized in 1981 while serving in the U.S. Navy. As a former Associate Pastor for Christian Fellowship International Military Ministry, he has dedicated his life to teaching, evangelizing, and strengthening the faith of others.
