What about the Holocaust *

I know that God allows things or directs them, but why didnt he prevent horrible things like the Holocaust from happening? He can do anything? I strongly believe in Jesus, God, and the Holy Spirit, I am just very confused rn abt this. 😔

A: While there is much evil in this fallen world and Satan thinks he is winning, it is not the case. No Human nor fallen angel can do anything if God doesnt allow or direct it. It doesnt mean God is evil. He can use evil for good. He is still in control and wont let anything happen without a good purpose. 

I have heard amazing salvation stories from Jews in those camps and of those who survived; their families and great grand kids are in church/know Christ because of that tragedy. Praise God. 

Similarly while in this sin stained fallen world, when tragedies, any war, disease or similar situation, God is working all things out for good. A skim of Scripture even easily shows us this. 

Why did God allow the Holocaust? 

What others meant for evil God will use for Good

What we learn from the book of Job

Here are resources related to Jews getting saved during Nazi era

Finding faith in the darkest of times is a powerful testament to the human spirit, and the Holocaust era presents numerous stories of individuals turning to Christianity for solace and strength. 

Hitler's Shadow: Christians and the Dilemma of the Jewish People" by John S. Conway: This historical study examines the complex relationship between Christianity and the Holocaust, including instances of conversion and collaboration. 1997. 

Corrie ten Boom: A Dutch watchmaker and member of the Dutch Resistance, Corrie and her family were imprisoned in Ravensbrück concentration camp for harboring Jews. Despite the unimaginable suffering, Corrie found solace in her Christian faith, sharing her hope and love with fellow prisoners. After the war, she dedicated her life to sharing her experiences and promoting forgiveness, becoming a renowned speaker and author. 

"In My Father's House" by Corrie Ten Boom is her life story leading up to the Holocaust. 

"The Hiding Place", is her story; one of many of non-Jews giving aid to Jews and describes in intimate detail how people’s lives were affected on a microcosmic level. 

And "Tramp for the Lord: is her life afterwards.

Viktor Frankl: An Austrian Jewish psychiatrist and Holocaust survivor, Viktor Frankl's book "Man's Search for Meaning" details his experiences in Auschwitz and other camps. His logotherapy emphasizes finding purpose and meaning in life, even in the most dire circumstances. Frankl's Christian faith played a crucial role in his ability to endure and later help others find meaning in their suffering. 

Dietrich Bonhoeffer: A Lutheran pastor and theologian, Dietrich Bonhoeffer actively resisted the Nazi regime and was eventually executed for his involvement in a plot to assassinate Hitler. Despite the dangers, Bonhoeffer remained a vocal critic of Nazi ideology and found solace in his faith, writing extensively on themes of Christian ethics and resistance. 

While not Christian, Miriam Ezagui. She is an Orthodox Jew & her Bubby (grandmother) Lily Malnik is a Holocaust survivor. Lily was one of the founding members of the Holocaust Museum in DC. Miriam features Lily on her social media and she shares her story. Miriam & Lily both discuss Lily’s complicated relationship with god, her existential questions like why would god allow such horrors, etc. Very moving & educational.

Here are some resources where you can explore these stories further:

The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum: The museum's website features numerous resources on the Holocaust, including survivor testimonies and educational materials. You can search their collections specifically for stories of faith and religion. Yad Vashem: Israel's national Holocaust museum and research center also offers a wealth of resources, including survivor testimonies and exhibits on various aspects of the Holocaust. Books: Numerous books chronicle the experiences of Christians during the Holocaust. Some notable examples include "Night" by Elie Wiesel, "Man's Search for Meaning" by Viktor Frankl, and "The Hiding Place" by Corrie ten Boom. 

Salvation Stories from the Holocaust:

>> coming soon. I recall several but need to find the sources. I even remember 2-3 from in the concentration camps 

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

* 

And there's countless more. 

I hope this has helped.

Here is a story about some ladies most never knew about. They were a light in the darkness of the evil nazi era. Many more stories out there. 

Related Resources

Resources for Growing Believers

Youth FAQ