P-12 The Restoration of God’s Character in Physical Disabilities

Abstract

Several passages in Scripture illustrate the manifestation of physical disabilities as the result of divine interference. Jacob walked away with a limp; Paul was left partially blind; and an unnamed man was born completely blind in order to demonstrate divine providence. The maladies of these characters can be chalked up as God’s means for the edification of their faith, but this defense does not account for inconsistencies between God’s actions and His compassionate character. Is God a shepherd who would break the legs of His sheep in order to teach them how to depend upon Him? The object of this study is to uncover a theodicy that reconciles God’s character to His dealings with physiological incapacities through careful exegesis of three passages: Genesis 32:25-31; Acts 9:3-9, 17-19; and John 9:1-7.

Acknowledgments

Supervising Professor: Rodney Palmer

Location

Buller Hall Lobby

Start Date

3-8-2019 2:30 PM

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Mar 8th, 2:30 PM

P-12 The Restoration of God’s Character in Physical Disabilities

Buller Hall Lobby

Several passages in Scripture illustrate the manifestation of physical disabilities as the result of divine interference. Jacob walked away with a limp; Paul was left partially blind; and an unnamed man was born completely blind in order to demonstrate divine providence. The maladies of these characters can be chalked up as God’s means for the edification of their faith, but this defense does not account for inconsistencies between God’s actions and His compassionate character. Is God a shepherd who would break the legs of His sheep in order to teach them how to depend upon Him? The object of this study is to uncover a theodicy that reconciles God’s character to His dealings with physiological incapacities through careful exegesis of three passages: Genesis 32:25-31; Acts 9:3-9, 17-19; and John 9:1-7.