The Reason: We’ve all sinned.

Sin came into the world because of what one man did, and with sin came death. —Romans 5:12 (NCV)

Not a single person on earth is always good and never sins. —Ecclesiastes 7:20 (NLT)

What is sin?

Sin.

Transgression.

Iniquity.

The Result: We live in a fallen world.

We know that everything on the earth cries out with pain the same as a woman giving birth to a child. —Romans 8:22 (NLV)

Just thinking of my troubles and my lonely wandering makes me miserable. That’s all I ever think about, and I am depressed. Then I remember something that fills me with hope. The Lord’s kindness never fails! If he had not been merciful, we would have been destroyed. The Lord can always be trusted to show mercy each morning. Deep in my heart I say, “The Lord is all I need; I can depend on him!” —Lamentations 3:19-24 (CEV)

The Rationale: Why God lets things continue.

1. To give us a choice.

“Now listen! Today I am giving you a choice between life and death, between prosperity and disaster. —Deuteronomy 30:15 (NLT)

2. To show us our need for a savior.

…God leaves it the way it is to test people and to show them they are just like animals. —Ecclesiastes 3:18 (NCV)

My Response:

1. Receive his provision of grace.

For the sin of this one man, Adam, caused death to rule over many. But even greater is God’s wonderful grace and his gift of righteousness, for all who receive it will live in triumph over sin and death through this one man, Jesus Christ. —Romans 5:17 (NLT)

2. Remember this place is temporary.

For this world is not our home; we are looking forward to our everlasting home in heaven. —Hebrews 13:14 (TLB)

Group Discussion Questions:

1. What other explanations have you heard for why the world is so messed up and how to fix it?

2. Why do you think people resist truth and seek other alternatives?

3. Where does temptation end and sin begin?

4. How do you think love, free will, and human responsibility fit together in God’s plan?