Religion and the Problem of Evil

I'm in the middle of developing a new blog entry, but in the mean time I thought I'd post my third master craftsman paper, which pertains to the Rose Croix degrees of the Scottish Rite. The topic is on Albert Pike's view of religion and the problem of evil.

The most interesting thing I learned while doing the reading assignment for this quiz was Albert Pike’s views on religion that are expressed in the book A Bridge to Light by Rex R. Hutchens. We learn that we must be tolerant of all religious views, even when they are different from our own. We also learn that many religions shared views on God and the problem of evil. Albert Pike believed that all creeds held that God’s identity is “immutable and permanent” and that God is “great, good, and wise.” (Page 131 in A Bridge to Light) Since these traits are common to all religions, members of these faiths can stand side-by-side, in Scottish Rite Masonry, worshipping the same God with these common characteristics.

Even the concept of a Messiah is a universal one, and many religions are awaiting the coming of a Messiah-type figure. Therefore, it is not appropriate for a Christian to not be tolerant of another’s religious views. Also, if Jesus Christ is God, then the other religions that are worshipping God are ultimately acknowledging Him anyway, even if expressing their belief of Him using different characteristics. The same universal truths have been expressed differently, appropriately to those who perceive them. Religion follows the same format with God sharing common characteristics. This brings to mind a quote from the Mormon scripture Doctrine and Covenants, “All truth is independent in that sphere in which God has placed it, to act for itself.” (D&C 93:30) We must be tolerant since people have the truth that is appropriate for them.

The problem of evil is also something addressed by Albert Pike, and is an issue that all religions have addressed. That good will eventually triumph over evil is a common trend throughout most religions. The existence of an all-powerful God almost begs the idea that evil must be part of His plan, since nothing can exist unless He allows it. Therefore, many believe that evil is God’s way of testing us. The evil in the world gives us a chance to show our virtues, a chance to improve, and a chance to learn survival of adversity. This is the way God gives us “trial by fire” so that we ultimately come out of the experience better people. This idea hints at the royal secret, or equilibrium, that good and evil are kept in a constant balance.