Ted Peters

Sin: Radical Evil in Soul and Society. By Ted Peters. Grand Rapids, Michigan: William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 1994. 338 pp.

Lutheran theologian Ted Peters takes us on an exploration of the concept of sin and evil in his 1994 release Sin: Radical Evil in Soul and Society. Dr. Peters currently serves as a Professor of Systematic Theology at Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary. He is also co-editor of the scholarly journal of the Center for Theology and the Natural Sciences, Theology and Science. Well known for his research and study of the New Age movement and ecumenicalism, Dr. Peters delves deeper into the issue of depravity and the road that leads to evil.

In this book, Dr. Peters defines radical evil as evil that is pursued in the name of evil. It is a deliberate evil, consciously pursued for its own sake. Dr. Peters proposes that this does not simply just “happen”, but rather there is a progression of sin that leads to such an extreme radical evil.

There is a chapter devoted to each of the seven steps that ultimately lead to radical evil, or blasphemy. This is not necessarily laid out as a chronological progression, but rather one of degrees. Dr. Peters begins with anxiety. Although he says that in and of itself, anxiety is not a sin, it opens the door to the next step, which is unfaith. The progression then moves from unfaith to pride, concupiscence, self-justification, cruelty, and finally blasphemy.

Each of these chapters is full of excellent analysis, warnings and scriptural support as to how each of these steps manifest, and how they can ultimately lead to the next step in the progression to radical evil. In the final step Dr. Peters examines two flavors of blasphemy. The first is labeled “covert blasphemy”. It is essentially a subtle form of hypocrisy that usurps the goodness of God and ultimately tarnishes His reputation.
The second flavor of blasphemy that Dr. Peters addresses is the focus of his book – that of Radical Evil. He then engages in an excellent analysis of Satanism as well as the ability of radical evil to destroy the soul.

He closes his book with two more chapters. The chapter dealing with forgiveness deals with some challenging issues, including a discussion on the personal sin experience of the individual and how that impacts the way we live and interact. He also presents a Theodicy and a discussion of Natural Evil. Finally, he closes his book with a discussion about the potential genetic nature of sin.

Dr. Peters insightful exploration of each of the seven steps as he proposes them makes this book a valuable read. It opens up the eyes of the reader to a broader understanding of the consequences of sin, and the dangers that are very real in the life of one who lives with their sin unchecked.

Although the book provides an excellent study in the area of sin, it is disappointing that Dr. Peters doesn’t take a strong stand on some critical issues. Although the idea of original sin and depravity is discussed at length, he does not come to any conclusions, and leaves the issue up in the air. He does seem to state his stance in his last chapter with the exploration of genetics and sin, but never firmly states a position.
In addition, he tends to portray Satan as more of an impersonal force or concept than a real figure with influence. He acknowledges that more study needs to be done in this area, but dodges taking a stance on the nature of Satan and Hell as a reality or as allegory.

In conclusion, Sin: Radical Evil in Soul and Society is an excellent read for both the scholar and the layperson. His language is simple and eloquent, and his content is deep and rich. Sin is a struggle with which we all must deal on a daily basis. The old adage is true – We must know our enemy. All the more when that enemy can manifest in our selves.

Soli Deo Gloria… (mere)