S4 E15 | Dr. Bethany N. Sollereder | Finding Hope Amid Suffering

The Alabaster Jar

In this conversation, Dr. Lynn Cohick is joined by Dr. Bethany N Sollereder to discuss her book 'Why Is There Suffering?' They discuss the book's format, the distinction between God's love and goodness, the role of Scripture in understanding suffering, and the unique desires of love and original sin. They also explore the difference between altruism and love, the impact of fear on understanding love, and the transforming power of love. The conversation concludes with a discussion on navigating harmful relationships and the mystery of God's love.

Key Takeaways:

• Suffering is a complex topic that requires thoughtful exploration and understanding.
• Love is a transformative force that can bring meaning and healing amid suffering.
• The distinction between altruism and love is important, as love goes beyond selflessness and encompasses a desire for the good of the other and union with the other.
• Fear can hinder our ability to embrace love fully, but surrendering to God's transformative work can help overcome fear.
• Navigating harmful relationships requires discernment and seeking guidance from God and a trusted community.

Episode Breakdown
00:00 - Introduction and Background
02:49 - Bethany's Book: Why is There Suffering?
05:19 - The Format of the Book
08:19 - Understanding God's Love and Power
09:18 - Different Explanations for Suffering
11:19 - The Distinction Between God's Love and Goodness
13:23 - Grief as a Fracturing of Meaning
16:37 - The Role of Scripture in Understanding Suffering
19:27 - Science and Theology: The Unique Desires of Love and Original Sin
20:34 - Aquinas' View on Love
23:23 - The Distinction Between Altruism and Love
27:29 - Fear and Love
32:07 - The Transforming Power of Love
34:07 - Navigating Harmful Relationships
39:14 - The Mystery of God's Love

Episode Resources:
Why Is There Suffering?: Pick Your Own Theological Expedition by Dr. Bethany Sollereder
Emerging Voices in Science and Theology by Dr. Bethany Sollereder & Dr. Alistair McGrath
Wandering in Darkness: Narrative and the Problem of Suffering by Dr. Eleonore Stump The
Visual Museum Of Women In Christianity

Episode Sponsor:
The Alabaster Jar is brought to you by The Center for Women in Leadership, a newly formed 501©3 nonprofit organization whose purpose is to equip women in a context that is biblically rooted, theologically robust, and ethnically diverse to thrive as leaders in the academy and the Church. Follow them on Instagram @leadershipwithoutapology. Learn more about The Center for Women in Leadership at: https://www.leadershipwithoutapology.org/.