In the Gospels, Jesus makes several statements that refer to the inherent evil of humanity and the world we live in. These statements have been interpreted in various ways, but they all point to a profound understanding of the human condition.
‘If You, Being Evil’
In Matthew 7:11, Jesus says, ‘If you, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask him!’ This verse is often used to argue that humans are inherently sinful and that we are incapable of doing good, without God’s help.
However, it is important to note that the Greek word translated as ‘evil’ in this verse (ponēros) does not necessarily mean ‘sinful.’ It can also mean ‘wicked,’ ‘harmful,’ or ‘unjust.’ In this context, Jesus is likely referring to the fact that humans are often selfish and motivated by their own desires. Even when we do good, it is often for our own benefit or to gain the approval of others.
‘This Present Evil World’
In Galatians 1:4, Paul writes, ‘Who gave himself for our sins to deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of our God and Father.’ This verse is often used to support the idea that the world we live in is inherently evil and that we need to be saved from it.
The phrase ‘present evil age’ (or ‘present evil world’ in some translations) is a translation of the Greek term ‘aion houtos poneros.’ ‘Aion’ refers to an age, period, or realm, while ‘houtos’ means ‘this’ or ‘present.’ ‘Ponos’ means ‘evil’ or ‘wicked.’
Therefore, the ‘present evil age’ can be understood as the current world system, characterised by sin, evil, and opposition to God. It is a realm dominated by the forces of darkness and corruption. (The Hindu term ‘Kali Yuga’, describes our world in a similar way: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kali_Yuga )
Paul’s use of the term ‘present evil age’ reflects his belief that the world is fallen and corrupted by sin. He saw the world as being under the influence of Satan, the ‘ruler of this world’ (John 12:31).
The New Testament statements attributed to Jesus and Paul, about the far reaching nature evil have several implications for us. First, they remind us that we are all sinners and that we need God’s forgiveness. Second, they challenge us to live in a way that’s different from the world. We’re called to be light, to bring hope and healing to a broken world. Third, they give us hope that one day we will be delivered from this present evil world and live in the new heaven and new earth.
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