Why One Would Not Worship a God Who Causes Child Cancer - Debunking the Myth

In theological discourse, the notion of a deity who causes child cancer is often met with significant skepticism. Many argue that such a belief is both illogical and misguided. This article aims to elucidate why one would not worship a God who is believed to inflict child cancer, while also examining the evidentiary claims and potential reasons behind such beliefs.

Warping My Faith: The Question of Divine Design

The original argument centers on the idea that a deity who causes child cancer is unworthy of worship. The counter-argument, however, posits that believing in such a deity is an oversimplification of divine sovereignty. It is suggested that a higher power, despite creating a world with challenges, is worthy of worship because of the inherent belief in His wisdom and will.

The response to this assertion is a call for evidence, demanding that such claims be substantiated with concrete proof. Without empirical evidence, it is argued, beliefs in a deity who causes child cancer are unfounded and baseless.

Biblical Interpretation and Divine Sovereignty

The second critique highlights the misinterpretation of divine sovereignty. A common version of the argument states, 'Yes, and why worship a God who feeds plastic to whales, poisons rivers, destroys ozone layers, and causes wars?' These actions, attributed to a deity, raise questions about the nature of such a being.

Deity Accountability and Ethical Responsibility

The question invites a broader examination of a deity's accountability. If a higher power is seen as omnipotent and omniscient, it is argued that this power should be held accountable for the negative outcomes in the world. War, environmental degradation, and acts of violence are often seen as poor governance by a deity, leading to doubts about His benevolence and justice.

Many argue that such a view of God is unnecessarily harsh and does not align with the tradition of a merciful and loving deity. A more compassionate interpretation emphasizes a divine plan that includes trials and hardships to build resilience and moral character. The goal, according to this view, is not just physical survival but spiritual and moral maturity.

Evidentiary Claims and Scientific Research

The third critique provides a more pragmatic approach by looking at scientific research and evidence. The call to 'look a little more closely at ourselves, our children, and the substantial piles upon piles of evidence-based research' is a reminder that many cancers can be attributed to environmental and genetic factors, not divine intervention.

Identifiable Causative Agents

Scientific research has identified numerous causative agents for various cancers, such as known toxins and chemicals. For instance, the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) has led to efforts to regulate chemicals known to cause cancer. Additionally, legal actions have been initiated and settled, highlighting the impact of toxic substances on public health. Cases such as those related to the Marine armed forces base in North Carolina demonstrate the real-world impacts of toxic exposure on human health.

These examples provide concrete evidence that many cancers are the result of human activity, not divine agency. The argument against a deity who causes child cancer is therefore rooted in a lack of evidence rather than philosophical speculation.

Conclusion: A Deity Fit for Eternity

Ultimately, the discussion centers on the nature of the deity one worships. A God who is eternal, absolute, and uncreated is often seen as the essence of life, goodness, righteousness, and love. This divine being is not seen as the source of suffering but rather as the ultimate ender of life and the maker of blessings, even in challenging circumstances.

Worship is not about blind belief but about understanding and accepting a higher power that brings both joy and trials. Those who are called home in their youth are seen as having completed their earthly journey prematurely, allowing them to graduate early in their eternal destinations.

By examining the evidence and approaching the concept of deity with a critical yet compassionate mindset, we can find a way to reconcile our beliefs with the realities of life and its challenges.