There used to be a rather naïve theory held by some people in the Church that God’s kingdom was going to be gently, but steadily ushered into human affairs. This was expected, not only because God was working throughout the world to expand His kingdom, but also because it was believed that as humanity became increasingly enlightened and conducted itself on more rational, scientific grounds, that human progress was inevitable. Then came World War One where the most scientific, and “civilized” nations in the world engaged in a barbaric bloodbath that senselessly wasted the lives of millions of their finest youth. At first this was hoped to be an aberration, a glitch in the perennially forward march of enlightened society. But then Germany, the most scientific of nations, launched a second cataclysmic conflict. In fact, during the most scientific age of history, the Twentieth Century, there has been more violence, and more Christian martyrs, than any other period in history.
Times are not becoming more peaceful and enlightened. In fact, the number of Christian martyrs is increasing. Violent deaths at the hands of despots and religious fanatics are at epidemic levels. Danger abounds. Violence is commonplace. Yet Scripture assures us that in the last days, it will grow worse. One of the clearest signs that time is drawing to a close is how perilous the times have become.
This is not a day for cowards or the easily intimidated. These are times for God’s people to take courage. The King is coming! Do we have the boldness to serve and honor Him in the midst of the challenging and intimidating days in which we live?