Is There Such a Thing as “Necessary Evil”?

 

The phrase “necessary evil” is often used in parallel with sayings such as “the ends justify the means”, “for the greater good”, or “the lesser of two evils”. The expression implies certain immoralities are warranted by the situation. Taken at face value, the expression necessary evil is unbiblical: if something is truly evil, then it is never necessary or morally acceptable. That said, the phrase “necessary evil” can have some validity, depending on how it is understood. The difference hinges on how one defines the terms involved.

Scripture uses the term ‘evil’ in two distinct ways. The most common meaning implies ‘moral wickedness’,meaning ‘sin’ (Matthew 12:35; Judges 3:12; Proverbs 8:13; 3 John 1:11). In common English, this is how the word evil is most often understood. However, Hebrew is a highly contextual language. Old Testament terms referencing moral evil are closely connected to those implying disaster, catastrophe, ugliness, or tragedy (Genesis 50:20; Amos 3:6). 

Moral evil is sin: something contrary to the nature of God. Moral evil is never necessary. No matter the situation, God offers a resolution that does not require evil (1 Corinthians 10:13). That which is explicitly forbidden by God’s moral law is neither justified nor excused by any situation. Committing a sin may be “necessary to keep my wealth,” “necessary to keep my power,” or even “necessary to keep my life,” but it is never “necessary in the eyes of God.” The concept of a “necessary evil,” taken literally, is clearly unbiblical. 

Until next time, walk with the King & be a blessing.

In His Name & for His Glory,

RL Keller

Bread of Life Ministries