Thursday, March 26, 2009

Culture Declines, God's Sovereignty

I think one of the reasons for expanded interest in eschatology is that many of us live in times when we perceive the coming end of our predominate culture. Paul could see the evidence of the decline of the Roman empire, I’m sure. Of course in the 1970’s we had a lot of economic and political difficulties, and Hal Lindsey assured us the end was near.

If we pull back and view historical patterns, there are hopeful signs.

For example, in the 1790’s the quite new country of the United States of America was in serious trouble. Flailing economic mess, high alcoholism and suicide and crime rates, major foreign powers poised for assaults – much worse, really, than anything we experience today. But consider how this decade of horrible problems laid the groundwork for the Great Awakening in 1800 and 1801!

Let us remember that God is sovereign, fulfills all His promises, and alone knows the timing of the end. Until then, we look for Christ’s coming, and live as faithful ambassadors, blessing our communities and countries as we have opportunities, and making disciples of all nations, as He commanded.

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