The senseless, tragic murder of innocent victims at the hands of crazed gunmen has become America's national nightmare. Having reached the so-called "tipping point", passionate voices call for real change. No doubt there will be increased dialog on such things are gun control, mental health, and violence in entertainment in the days ahead. All will be, at best, cosmetic solutions to a real problem.
Underlying these hideous crimes and acts of violence is a spiritual problem that no secular society would dare address. It involves addressing the true nature of evil, and outlining biblical pathways to real solutions.
The lines between mental and spiritual health are easily blurred. Modern medicine systematically categorizes all such maladies as mental and emotional, and prescribe chemical remedies, to the enormous profit of mega-pharmaceutical corporations. Spiritual problems are thus overlooked, as are spiritual solutions.
The uncomfortable possibility to be addressed is that of demon possession, and satanic influence. Is there a devil? Is it possible for individuals to be overwhelmed and controlled by evil influence aside of human tendency? Such questions are not easily addressed, but must be considered amidst a rapidly growing series of mass murders.
The gospel narratives (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) contain numerous incidents of demonic exorcism at the hands of Jesus. Is this merely imagery for mental healing, or were external evil forces involved?
Perhaps the most poignant biblical example of the external influence of evil is Jesus' betrayer, Judas. Few words are as chilling as these: "And Satan entered into Judas who was called Iscariot, belonging to the number of the twelve." (Luke 22.3) This incident became the "tipping point" for the ultimate sinister act: the betrayal of the sinless Son of God by one of His inner circle.
Is it possible that such external evil influence is a factor in modern mass homicides? If so, how does it come about? What conditions and habits are conducive to such influence and even possession?
It is almost certain that the questions and issues raised here will never receive serious consideration in this modern society. But, the people of God do well to consider such things in order to live wisely, and face the nature of our true war (Ephesians 6.10-17).
The greatest priority amidst the dark backdrop of our times must certainly be to live and propagate biblical truth, and genuine love. These words of Jesus are especially instructive: "Because lawlessness is increased, most people's love will grow cold." (Matthew 24.12) The challenge is to be a rare community pocket of unconditional Christian love, acceptance, and forgiveness in the last days. And, to "let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near." (Hebrews 10.24-25)
We will never counteract the rising tide of evil in the last days, but we can be bright beacons of hope and love who hold out precious, life-saving truth. And, by better understanding the true face of evil, we can lovingly counsel and assist those who are its victims.
These are times for the people of God to especially live wisely, represent truth fully, and love fervently from the heart.
Steve
©Steve Taylor, 2012
Underlying these hideous crimes and acts of violence is a spiritual problem that no secular society would dare address. It involves addressing the true nature of evil, and outlining biblical pathways to real solutions.
The lines between mental and spiritual health are easily blurred. Modern medicine systematically categorizes all such maladies as mental and emotional, and prescribe chemical remedies, to the enormous profit of mega-pharmaceutical corporations. Spiritual problems are thus overlooked, as are spiritual solutions.
The uncomfortable possibility to be addressed is that of demon possession, and satanic influence. Is there a devil? Is it possible for individuals to be overwhelmed and controlled by evil influence aside of human tendency? Such questions are not easily addressed, but must be considered amidst a rapidly growing series of mass murders.
The gospel narratives (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) contain numerous incidents of demonic exorcism at the hands of Jesus. Is this merely imagery for mental healing, or were external evil forces involved?
Perhaps the most poignant biblical example of the external influence of evil is Jesus' betrayer, Judas. Few words are as chilling as these: "And Satan entered into Judas who was called Iscariot, belonging to the number of the twelve." (Luke 22.3) This incident became the "tipping point" for the ultimate sinister act: the betrayal of the sinless Son of God by one of His inner circle.
Is it possible that such external evil influence is a factor in modern mass homicides? If so, how does it come about? What conditions and habits are conducive to such influence and even possession?
It is almost certain that the questions and issues raised here will never receive serious consideration in this modern society. But, the people of God do well to consider such things in order to live wisely, and face the nature of our true war (Ephesians 6.10-17).
The greatest priority amidst the dark backdrop of our times must certainly be to live and propagate biblical truth, and genuine love. These words of Jesus are especially instructive: "Because lawlessness is increased, most people's love will grow cold." (Matthew 24.12) The challenge is to be a rare community pocket of unconditional Christian love, acceptance, and forgiveness in the last days. And, to "let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near." (Hebrews 10.24-25)
We will never counteract the rising tide of evil in the last days, but we can be bright beacons of hope and love who hold out precious, life-saving truth. And, by better understanding the true face of evil, we can lovingly counsel and assist those who are its victims.
These are times for the people of God to especially live wisely, represent truth fully, and love fervently from the heart.
Steve
©Steve Taylor, 2012
posted by steve @ 8:16 AM
4 Comments:
At 11:32 AM,
Jason Berry said…
Thought provoking statements made about the presence of Evil in the world. I find it very difficult to believe such a force exists beyond our own human depravity. Making concessions that an outside force influences our behaviors detracts (in my opinion) from our responsibility to exercise free will with good judgement. Sadly, the only influence we need to commit such horrific acts are our own tendencies towards self indulgence. I certainly agree that this is a spiritual problem. Absence of a moral compass (as prescribed by God) leaves an individual with now path to follow and allows them to walk in any which direction their sinful heart desires. I can't help but think of how America is mirroring Israel of old...
At 11:33 AM,
Jason Berry said…
Thought provoking statements made about the presence of Evil in the world. I find it very difficult to believe such a force exists beyond our own human depravity. Making concessions that an outside force influences our behaviors detracts (in my opinion) from our responsibility to exercise free will with good judgement. Sadly, the only influence we need to commit such horrific acts are our own tendencies towards self indulgence. I certainly agree that this is a spiritual problem. Absence of a moral compass (as prescribed by God) leaves an individual with now path to follow and allows them to walk in any which direction their sinful heart desires. I can't help but think of how America is mirroring Israel of old...
At 11:42 AM,
Jason Berry said…
Very interesting statements regarding the presence of Evil in this world. I have never been one to place emphasis on an actual entity or being to hold influence in our decisions. In my opinion, such ideas detract from our responsibility to exercise free will with good moral judgement. These horrific acts are committed by those who give in to their own selfish desires. I agree, however, without a moral (and spiritual) compass to direct us on the right path, we are apt to walk in whichever direction our sinful hearts takes us. I can't help but make the comparison of America in recent times to that of Israel's rebellious ways of old...
At 12:05 PM,
steve said…
Jason, thanks for commenting. There are various understandings regarding the existence of Satan. There are a couple of extremes: blaming him for all evil, and denying his existence altogether. We must each study to arrive at a personal understanding.
We are in agreement regarding the loss of spiritual/moral bearings. Certainly there is a parallel between this country and Israel. May we wisely learn from their example
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