The new movie "Wicked" takes a familiar tale and flips it, portraying evil as a product of difficult circumstances and past trauma rather than personal responsibility. While this perspective may resonate with modern audiences, it contrasts with what the Bible teaches about the nature of good and evil.
Scripture reveals that the will, or spirit, is the heart of our being—the very core of who we are. Good and evil are not simply the result of external forces or life experiences; they stem from the condition of the heart.
Nothing enters the mind without leaving a lasting impact.
Jesus explained this clearly when He said, "For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts" (Mark 7:21). Similarly, John 4:23 highlights that God desires worship that comes from the spirit, rooted in truth. These verses remind us that our choices, our inclinations, and ultimately our character are shaped by what resides in our heart, not just by what happens to us.
God’s Word consistently emphasizes that He looks beyond outward appearances and circumstances, focusing instead on the heart (1 Samuel 16:7; Isaiah 66:2). He calls us to respond to Him with sincerity and openness, seeking Him with our whole heart and spirit (2 Chronicles 15:4, 15; Jeremiah 29:13; Hebrews 11:6). While it’s true that life’s hardships can influence us, the Bible shows that we are not defined or trapped by our past. Instead, through God’s grace, we can be renewed and transformed from within.
Unlike the narrative in "Wicked," which seeks to justify or explain away evil, the Bible confronts the reality of sin while offering a path to redemption. It doesn’t deny the impact of pain or injustice, but it reveals that the ultimate battle between good and evil lies within each of us. Only by turning to God and allowing Him to work in our hearts can we overcome the sin that separates us from Him. This truth is both convicting and liberating, offering hope for transformation regardless of our past.
There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death. Proverbs 14:12
