A recent article from World Net Daily indicates that the distance from civil unrest to civil war may not be far away. The article is responding to a study by the University of Chicago Project of Security and Threats, which reveals that 30 million Americans (12%) think using violent force would be justified to keep President Trump out of the White House. There are also some 15 million who say violence is justified to prevent the prosecution of President Trump. So, how has America gone from We the People to You the Enemy? And what is the biblical response?
Lawlessness
We all know that lawlessness is on the rise. For instance, the Target retail chain reports that thefts involving violence or violent threats are up 120% in their stores. And daily news cycles show individuals and gangs robbing stores or randomly attacking people for no reason other than to express rage.
The Bible says that an increase in lawlessness is the result of a culture growing less compassionate. “Because lawlessness is increased, most people’s love will grow cold” (Matthew 24:12). As people lose confidence in the government’s ability to protect and serve, they’re more likely to take matters into their own hands.
Corruption
Lawlessness and corruption are two sides of the same coin. It’s becoming more and more obvious that America is ruled by a two-tier system of government, with justice being determined by whichever political party is in control. In other words, what’s deemed as right or wrong depends on political ideology rather than absolute truth. Many Americans now believe the ends justifies the means when it comes to protecting their ideology.
Consequently, we can trace the progression from being a nation that embraces rigorous debate to a nation whose college campuses promote, “words are violence.” First, views in opposition to the ruling party’s agenda are perceived as hostility, and must therefore be censored. Opposing views that persist are considered threatening. As such, those promoting these views may even face criminal charges. At the same time, people who commit actual violent acts are released to commit more violence.
Deception
Corruption is marketed through deception and is dependent on compliance. That kind of cultural climate nurtures the roots of unrest and war. This is happening under the instigation and directive of the satanic realm. Remember, Satan is the father of all lies, which makes him the ultimate enemy of all truth (John 8:44). So, Christians who believe Scripture as the source of absolute truth are a threat to political power brokers—whether they be Republican or Democrat.
The Biblical Response
So, why do millions of Americans think violence is justified to protect their political ideology? Well, the foundations of godliness that once propelled our nation to greatness have all but eroded. Are we headed for another civil war? All the signs are certainly there. A nation founded on truth and liberty simply cannot operate on lies and corruption. What are we, as believers, to do with all this? What is the biblical response?
In short, the Bible tells us to carry on. Paul’s description of the last days is eerily similar to what we see in America today (2 Timothy 3:1-9). He even warns, “Indeed, all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted. But evil men and impostors will proceed from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived” (vv12-13).
But don’t miss what Paul says next. “You, however, continue in the things you have learned and become convinced of…the sacred writings which are able to give you the wisdom that leads to salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus” (vv14-15). What are we to do? Carry on! We continue to live by the absolute truth of God’s Word. We allow it to correct any hint of lawlessness, corruption, and deception in our own hearts and minds in order to “be adequate, equipped for every good work” (vv16-17).