Biblical explanation
God could destroy evil immediately, but Scripture shows that He has chosen to allow the conflict to continue for a time. The book of Job provides an important example. Satan challenged Job's motives and accused God of protecting him unfairly (). The conflict therefore involved questions about God's character and human loyalty. God's patience also gives people opportunity to repent. says God is “not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.” This patience should not be confused with indifference. God sees injustice and promises judgment. says God will bring every work into judgment. The cross is central to understanding God's approach to evil. Christ did not merely condemn sin from a distance. He entered humanity, suffered its consequences, and gave Himself for sinners. Ultimately, evil will end. promises that death, sorrow, crying, and pain will no longer exist. The Bible gives principles for understanding God's patience with evil, but it does not explain why every individual act of evil is permitted at the particular moment it occurs.
In brief
God could destroy evil immediately, but Scripture shows that He has chosen to allow the conflict to continue for a time.
Bible references
Go deeper into this topic Where Did Evil Come From? Start the studyThis answer is written and reviewed by the Word Oasis Editorial Team, and is presented with supporting references so you can examine each passage in context. If you notice an error or unclear statement, please suggest a correction.