Expert: Cooper P. Abrams III - 10/22/2010

Question
Would you mind taking the time to answer some of my questions? I am worried that some paths that I have taken are the wrong ones and i am worried how they will affect my path to God. I do not wish to tell you what I have done, but if you will answer the questions below it would help me greatly.
1. What do you consider evil to be?(please give an example)
2. What does your religion consider evil to be?(give an example if possible)
3. Do YOU believe individual circumstances can change what is considered to be evil? e.g. someone with a medical disorder commits an evil act, is it still evil?
4. Does your religion believe individual circumstances can change what is considered to be evil?
5. How does your religion punish evil acts?
6. Does the law of your country punish evil acts in a way that is similar to how your religion punishes it?

Thankyou for taking the time to answer my questions to the best of your ability.

Answer
Hi Jaimee,

Following is my answers to your questions. I hope they are helpful.

1. What do you consider evil to be?(please give an example)   According to the New Testament the Greek terms for evil are used primarily in three ways:

  (1) That which is wicked in character (Matt. 7:17; Rom. 3:8; 1 Cor. 5:13; Eph. 5:16) The Greek word translated into English as “evil” means something that is hurtful, derelict, vicious, mean spirited, lewd, malicious, wicked.
  (2) That which is destructive or injurious (2 Tim. 4:14; Rev. 16:2).  Seeking vengeance would be evil for a believer.  Bearing a false witness, scandalizing someone, gossiping to defame another’s character.
  (3) That which is troublesome (Isa. 45:7).  Being at odds with others, causing conflict, etc.

2. What does your religion consider evil to be?  I do not use the word “religion” but rather the meaning of the word would be what God says it is.   That is expressed above.

3. Do YOU believe individual circumstances can change what is considered to be evil? e.g. someone with a medical disorder commits an evil act, is it still evil? That would depend on the circumstances.  Mainly, if someone is doing evil and not in control, it would still be evil, but the person would not be responsible.   The key would be that the person would not be able to discern right from wrong, not having the mental capacity to do so.   A child can do wrong things and sin, yet they are not accountable, until they can understand their actions and consciously refuse to do right.   However, having a medical disorder is not a license to sin or commit sinful acts.  There are always consequences for doing wrong.

4. Does your religion believe individual circumstances can change what is considered to be evil?
 Only has stated above.
5. How does your religion punish evil acts?  We do not punish anyone.   That is
God’s responsibility.  However, if someone commits sinful or evil acts and refuses to repent we follow the Bible’s instruction and separate from them.

6. Does the law of your country punish evil acts in a way that is similar to how your religion punishes it?   My faith which is biblical Christianity does not punish anyone.   That is the responsibility of God or of the government in civil matters, not a biblical Christian.

If you have further questions or comments please write.
Cooper Abrams
Romans 12:1-2