Much of the modern Middle East is governed by an ancient worldview that has created a cultural vortex that cries “death to all Jews and Christians”. Some are overt, others are covert. But make no mistake - - Hate is the operative word.
The ideology of Islam is a geopolitical religion that will rule the world by coercing and conquering all other religions by conversion or death. Death seems to be the choice of the day. Death to the Jews, death to America, death to Christians, and death to all Muslims who will not submit to this tyrannical view of history and prophecy.
What are we to do? Clearly the Crusades of 1,000 AD offer little guidance as a model for anyone today. Christians are to be known by their love to the unlovable as evidenced by our Lord toward us. Islam is now known by its hate. The juxtaposition is clear. We are to love our enemy, pray for them, and share the good news. As John Mitchell reminds us, “Love is sincerely wishing God’s very best for someone else and doing what you can do to see that come about.” The most loving thing I can do is share the good news of eternal life even to those who wish my death.
I am not suggesting blind optimism, and we must reject fatalistic pessimism. We are not to deny the reality we live in or surrender to despair. The solution is Biblical Realism. Read the Book of Acts and see how the early Church, that lived in a hostile world of death, managed to manifest the love of God and literally change the world…for the good! Many died and most lived with injustice.
However, the providential hand of God manifested the sovereign plan of God in a very hostile environment. That is because the gospel does not depend on environment but on relationship.
As I read my Bible it reminds me that the truth of the future allows me to be at peace in the present. I may not be safe in this world, but I am eternally secured for the next one.
Serving Him with you Until He comes for us, Fred | 