'Demonic Upheaval': Pastor Reacts to ISIS-Inspired Terror Attack

With the New Orleans terror attack shocking the nation and world, theological questions about evil and related issues naturally emerge. Shane Idleman, lead pastor of Westside Christian Fellowship in Southern California, joined CBN News this week to discuss the problem of evil — and to offer guidance to Christians about how to discuss the tragic terror assault that left at least 14 dead and countless others injured. Idleman believes there's a "lot of demonic upheaval" in contemporary culture, with now-deceased suspect Shamsud-Din Jabbar reportedly finding inspiration from ISIS to conduct his attack, which included driving a vehicle through a crowd on Bourbon Street. "I think that does play a role — when you're not walking with the Lord, you're on the wrong side of the team and you can be definitely inspired to do these types of things," the preacher said. Idleman also dealt with some of the bigger questions about mass casualty events like this, noting some would ask how and why God would "allow" it to happen. "If we go back to creation, back to redemption, back to sin entering the world ... once that entered in, the world is a very evil and wicked place," he said. "And that's why God calls us to be the light, to bring the message of salvation, to warn people of His judgment." While many find themselves captured by fear after such events, Idleman said Christians must remember to root hope in Jesus. "Our faith does not waver based on news headlines," he said. "Our faith is to be solid and unyielding, and the deeper you build that relationship with God, the stronger your foundation is." Hear Idleman explain. Watch the weekly "Newsmakers" TV show each week on CBN News Watch the weekly "Newsmakers" TV show on CBN's YouTube channel Download the free CBN News App