That is why the legend of the Fall is a logical speculation, etc.
Why would one make the assumption in the first place? There are various arguments by which one might approach it, but let's keep it simple. First, if I came upon an elaborately constructed object, whose operation depended on the precise adjustment of the whole, such as computer, I would be compelled to assume that is had been deliberately designed and constructed, rather than arising from chance. Second, a Being powerful enough to create the universe would certainly be powerful enough to do most anything He wanted with it. Third, it is common enough in human workmen to want to perfect their design. From what we can glean of the design for human life on this planet, the problems you point to are matters of imperfection. The norm, if not perfect, is at least decent, for one thing. It is not a capricious and vicious world. By and large, people are born healthy, survive various diseases, form communal bonds, go about their business peaceably, and so forth. Enough that is bad happens to be troubling, and to raise doubts. Enough that is wonderful happens that it is hard not to want to praise God, periodically, for His creation. The legend of the Fall reconciles the two, by saying that God intended a perfect world and perfect existence for mankind, but that the introduction of sin into the world upset the balance, and left mankind in a situation of travail. Why did He do that? Because freedom is a serious matter, and you cannot bestow it and constantly abrogate the consequences........... |
