In a recent Bible study, the question of why God permitted the Holocaust was raised. It is a common question, particularly when individuals struggle with the concept of God and the existence of evil.

When we encounter extreme evil, we often tend to blame God or deny his existence. This train of thought emerges when we perceive the concept of evil in others or society but not within ourselves.

There is a roster of extreme acts of evil that can be applied. As an example, the attack on innocent Israelis that took place on October 7, 2023, or the resulting collateral damage occurring in Gaza. We must not overlook the distressing history of slavery in America, followed by the era of Jim Crow in the South. It is utterly perplexing that in various southern states of America, black people were subjected to lynching for insignificant or no cause whatsoever. What was the reason behind God’s allowance of all these events?

It is essential to consider how we let this happen and pose another question accordingly. In what manner did the world stand idly and observe Germany’s extermination of six million Jews? How was America’s response when people of color were subjected to inhumane treatment? Upon deep contemplation of these questions, it became clear to me that the entire world at the time observed the crucifixion of the flawless Son of God. How is it possible for someone completely devoid of sin to be put to death?

The answer can be easily deduced. The reason behind all previous instances of evil can be found here: each one of us possesses sin within ourselves.

The Holocaust was a result of sin. Sin was complicit in the passive allowance of the Holocaust. The same holds for both slavery and the inhumane treatment of individuals of color. Similarly, the assault on the Israelites and the resulting casualties in Gaza can be attributed to the manifestations of sin.

We must also remember the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. The reason for his crucifixion was the existence of sin. The cause of his demise can be attributed to the collective sin of humanity. He was crucified due to sin, effectively resolving the issue of sin.

"Why did God allow his perfect Son to die?" is a question that some people ask. The answer lies in the fact that Jesus died so that we could be freed from the penalty, power, and, ultimately, the presence of sin forever. His death reconciles us with God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit and allows us to enjoy an eternal dance of love with Him in the godhead.

It is necessary to recognize that what was done to Christ on the cross was done by us in order to experience what he did for us.