Argument from evil, restated

[Neo-Scholastic]

Ah, the "you need to be perfect to judge God" angle. Here's the ringer: you don't need to be perfect - only reasonable.

I didn't say perfect. I think it is reasonable to question God. Off the top of my head I can think of at least three biblical examples: Abraham bargains with God to save the righteous in Sodom, Job challenges God's sovereignty, and Jesus pleads for His life. In each of these cases the questioning results in a fuller understanding and acceptance of God's will. Generally, that only happens when you question from a humble heart (Job being the exception, who's ignorance was forcefully dispelled). All the atheist objections I mentioned are presented with righteous indignation and defiance. To my mind, this approach isn't so much putting the question to God, as already having pronounced judgement on Him.