Doctrines about God and Suffering These four doctrines increase the probability of the coexistence of God and suffering: 1. The chief purpose of life is not happiness, but the knowledge of God. 2. Mankind is in a state of rebellion against God and His purpose. 3. God’s purpose is not restricted to this life but spills over beyond the grave into eternal life. 4. The knowledge of God is an incommensurable good.
