The Problem of Evil | A Theodicy for the Reformed Universalist Lesson 2

In Lesson 2 of The Problem of Evil: A Theodicy for the Reformed Universalist from the Reformed Universalist Theological Seminary, Dr. William M. Brennan explores the weaknesses of Augustine’s backward-looking defense of God and contrasts it with Paul’s forward-looking theodicy in Romans 9–11. This in-depth lecture analyzes the Potter and the Clay analogy, showing that Paul’s concern was national and covenantal, not individual and metaphysical. Dr. Brennan demonstrates how Augustine’s and Leibniz’s theodicies—rooted in free will and divine self-expression—fail to capture the self-giving nature of divine love revealed in Christ. Instead, Scripture portrays a God whose omnipotence is expressed through self-sacrifice, mercy, and restoration. This lesson invites viewers to rethink divine justice, sovereignty, and the true meaning of the “greater good.”

Problem of Evil, Theodicy, Reformed Universalism, Augustine’s Theodicy, Leibniz best of all possible worlds, Romans 9–11, Potter and the Clay, Reformed Universalist Theological Seminary, William M. Brennan TH.D., divine sovereignty, universal reconciliation, Christian theology, apologetics.