Few weeks ago this writer happened to watch two T.V programmes based on the four major earth quakes that claimed lakhs of lives and left millions homeless, in a span of 40 days. Both the T.V anchors commented that, seeing the unprecedented geological changes it seems the world is heading towards a proverbial world catastrophe.
Environmental Changes
Any one who keeps an eye on the world events can easily notice that, in spite of all the claims of progress and development there is a downfall in many other areas. Much discussion is taking place concerning global warming, climate change and the subsequent food and water scarcity etc. Recent the volcanic eruption in Iceland that left much of Europe standstill was also something exceptional.
If the environmentalists and even the secular media are seriously considering a possible major ecological crisis, how much more we who know the word of God should be concerned about it. Of course our consideration is not with worry or anxiety but of confidence and hope.
Moral deterioration
Apart from the changes in the nature consider the moral deterioration all over world. The value system and moral standard is changing so fast. That which our forefathers considered evil is accepted as the best and normal! According to such people there is nothing evil, it lies with our perception! Even the so-called Christian countries are against Biblical principles and ideology today.
Freedom is misused everywhere. Respect for marriage and family diminishing. Consider the fashion world, it seems there is a deliberate effort to show the body and satisfy the cravings of the fallen man. Sex is widely misused and merchandised. Corruption is rampant everywhere. The driving force behind every one is profit at any cost.
In many countries both the law-makers as well as the law-interpreters stand with the modern perversion. More and more countries are legalizing homosexuality which is one of the most terrible sins that caused the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah.
Spiritual Lethargy
What about the condition the people of God? There are some churches who are struggling to undo the evil perpetrated by their leaders. Nearly everyone lost their appetite for spiritual things. Many find it hard to find enough time for spiritual nourishment. Most believers are satisfied with a weekly worship service of two hours. As a result ignorant Christians are more and they easily deviate from the truth.
Looking at any angle, we see the words of The Lord Jesus Christ being fulfilled. cf. Matthew 24: 414. All these are beginning of sorrows. v.8. Apostle Peter writes, But the end of all things is at hand; therefore be serious and watchful in your prayers. 1Peter 4:7. John writes in his epistle, The world is passing away and the lust of it 1John 2:17a. There are many such New Testament references, written more that two thousand years ago about the destruction of the present world system. How much more it is applicable today?
Seeing the deteriorating state of the world, many saints in the past sincerely prayed, Even so, come Lord Jesus! Rev 22:20c. We dont need to be worried about the world affairs. We can not change the world system either. The word of God reveals that this world has been destined to be destroyed. 1John 2:17; 2Peter 3:7. cf. Isaiah 24:1, 1923.
What should be our response to such scenario? (Ref. out line) Share the gospel of Christ that can enlighten and deliver people from the bondage of the evil one. While fulfilling our duties as responsible citizens, let us be aware of our true identity and wait for the coming of our blessed Lord Jesus. Prayerfully and purposefully prepare ourselves and others for eternity, for the world and all its lust is passing away. Then, whatever may be unfolded in the future we shall not be ashamed at the appearance of Christ. 1John 2: 28.
Related topic: - Separation from the world
Anecdote: -
Where is your furniture?
The story is told about some Christians who were traveling in the Middle East. They heard about a wise, devout, beloved and old believer. So they went out of their way to visit him. When they finally found him, they discovered that he was living in a simple hut. All he had inside was a rough cot, a chair, a table and a battered stove for heating and cooking.
The visitors were shocked to see how few possessions the man had, and one of them blurted out, Well, where is your furniture? The aged saint replied by gently asking, where is yours? The visitor, sputtering a little, responded, Why, at home, of course. I dont carry it with me, Im traveling. The godly Christian replied, So am I,
