Welcome to Apologetics with Carl Kerby!
Today, we’re talking about Buddhism’s view of the PURPOSE OF SUFFERING.
One of the major tenets of Buddhism is that suffering – such as poverty, sickness, and starvation – comes from humanity’s individual cravings and spiritual “ignorance.” In fact, Buddhists try to fix the problem of suffering by curtailing their own personal desires and attempting to become “enlightened” through Buddhist teachings. From a Buddhist perspective, suffering is always bad and must be eliminated at any personal cost.
But Scripture teaches us that suffering – although unpleasant – is something God often uses for a greater purpose, including to teach us spiritual truths, to help us deepen our trust in Him, and to draw us back to Himself when we stray from Him.
As Psalm 119:71 reminds us, ”It is good for me that I have been afflicted; that I might learn Your statutes.”
And where does Buddhism stand on other Christian beliefs? We’ll discuss that another time.
For additional resources, go to www.hopetools.net. Stay bold!
Carl Kerby is the founder of Reasons for Hope and co-creator of the DeBunked apologetic video series. His radio feature, Fast Facts, is heard weekly on VCY America, Saturdays at 9:25 AM Central.
